Sri Lanka to Switch Off Street Lights, Conserve Energy Amid Fuel Shortages from Middle East Conflict
Sri Lanka’s Office of the Commissioner-General of Essential Services has directed local authorities to switch off street lights during non-essential hours as the country faces an energy shortage triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Issued on Tuesday, the guidelines recommend maximizing natural lighting, reducing air-conditioning use in favor of electric fans, and limiting elevator operation by encouraging stairs where possible.
Officials are also urged to avoid commuting in individual vehicles and instead use public or shared transport.
The directive includes switching off neon signs and billboard lighting, and turning off street lights after 9 p.m., except in high-risk areas. Government institutions have been advised to adopt fuel- and energy-saving measures, including allowing staff to work remotely where technology permits.
This move complements the recently introduced four-day work week aimed at reducing pressure on the transport network. Institutions are also instructed to prepare daily transport plans to minimize vehicle use for field duties.
The Commissioner-General’s office emphasized that public officials should lead by example in supporting national energy conservation and security efforts.
The energy crisis comes as tensions in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz a key route for about 20% of global crude oil have disrupted fuel imports. Since the onset of the conflict between Iran and Israel-United States forces last month, Sri Lanka has increased fuel prices by one-third.