Sri Lanka: Power System Reliability Strengthening Project

Initial Environmental Examination

July 2021

Sri Lanka: Power System Reliability Strengthening Project

Annex 7: Environmental Audit for Existing Substations

Prepared by Ceylon Electricity Board and Lanka Electricity Company (Private) Limited for the Asian Development Bank. This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section on ADB’s website. In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.

http://www.adb.org/terms-use

Environmental Audit for Existing Substations

Document stage: Final Project Number: TA-9460 SRI July 2021

Power System Reliability Strengthening Project (PSRSP-TA 9460 SRI) Prepared by Resource Management Associates (Pvt) Ltd. for Asian Development Bank

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Background

1. The scope of the Power System Reliability Strengthening Project (PSRSP) includes

two 220 kV bay extensions in one existing grid substation (GSS), two 132 kV bay extensions

in three existing GSS, a new control building in the existing Matara GSS, and modification of

protection systems in eleven GSS/substations (SS). These components have to comply with

ADB’s Safeguards Policy Statement (2009) requirements and Sri Lankan environmental,

health and safety regulations. As per ADB’s Safeguards Policy Statement (2009), projects

involving facilities and/or business activities that already exist or are under construction, will

undertake an environment audit, including on-site assessment, to identify past or present

concerns related to impacts on the environment. The objective of the environment audit is to

determine whether actions were in accordance with ADB’s environment safeguard principles

and requirements and to identify and plan appropriate measures to address outstanding

compliance issues. Where noncompliance is identified, a corrective action plan (CAP) is

prepared. The CAP will define necessary corrective actions, the budget for such actions, and

the time frame for implementation. Since the project involves augmentation of existing

substations an environment compliance audit has been undertaken to support the IEE.

Expansion of existing facilities does not categorize as prescribed projects that require

environmental clearance under the National Environmental Act (NEA) No 47 of 1980 as

amended by Act No 56 of 1988 and Act No 53 of 2000.

B. Proposed Expansion Works

2. Line bays are required to connect transmission lines to GSS. One circuit of a

transmission line is connected to a line bay and, therefore, two bays are required to connect

a double circuit transmission line to a GSS. Table 1 summarizes the requirement of bay

extensions under the project.

Table 1: Requirement of Bay Extensions

Grid Substation

Number of Bays

Voltage Relevant Transmission Line Constructed under Project

New Anuradhapura

2 220 kV New Anuradhapura GSS - New Habarana SS 220 kV double circuit transmission line

Hambantota 2 132 kV Hambantota GSS - Matara GSS 132 kV double circuit transmission line

Kukule Ganga 2 132 kV Kukule Ganga PS - Kalawana GSS 132 kV double circuit transmission line

Matara 2 132 kV Hambantota GSS - Matara GSS 132 kV double circuit transmission line

3. Circuits of transmission lines are electrically protected from both terminals, using

switchgear which is controlled by protection relays. Switchgear and relays are located within

GSS. For a given circuit of a transmission line, protection relays at both terminals should be

operated in harmony to avoid any maloperations. Five Line-in Line-out (LILO) connections will

be constructed under the project. Construction of LILO connections alters the terminal points

of circuits of existing transmission lines which feed the LILO connection. Protection relays at

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existing terminals must be modified to match with protection relays at the new terminals. Thus,

new protection panels will be installed at eleven GSS/SS under the project.

C. Purpose of the Environmental Audit

4. Purpose of the environmental audit is:

(i) to identify any past and present inadequacies in environmental, occupational

and community health and safety management at the existing substations to

be augmented;

(ii) to determine the need for corrective actions necessary to bring the existing

facilities into compliance with Sri Lankan environmental, health and safety

regulations;1

(iii) to determine the need for corrective actions necessary to bring the existing

facilities into compliance with ADB’s Safeguards Policy Statement (2009) and

IFC EHS Guidelines which the ADB’s Safeguards Policy Statement (2009)

refers; and

(iv) to recommend actions to be taken to improve and strengthen CEB’s

environmental, health, and safety management.

D. Scope of Work

5. The environmental audit was focused on the 15 GSS/SS where there will be bay

extensions, a new control building and new protection panels installed as detailed above.

These 15 GSS/SS (Table 2) are New Anuradhapura GSS, Hambantota GSS, Kukule Ganga

PS, Matara GSS for proposed bay extensions and a new control building at Matara GSS; New

Chilaw GSS, New Habarana SS, Veyangoda GSS, Ambalangoda GSS, Bolawatta GSS, Galle

GSS, Horana GSS, Katunayake GSS, Kelaniya GSS, Kotugoda GSS and Padukka Switching

Station for the modification of protection systems (installation of new protection panels). They

are located in nine districts and five Provinces in the country (Figure 1 and Figure 2).

1 There are a number of legislative and regulatory instruments in Sri Lanka that address environmental, health

and safety management in both general and specific terms. Among these are the 1978 Constitution of

Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and a number of acts and regulations further details of which are

included in Section 2 of the IEE.

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Table 2: Name of GSS/SS, Coordinates, District, and the Provinces

Name Coordinates District Province

1 New Anuradhapura GSS 8.296870, 80.451806 Anuradhapura North Central

2 Hambantota GSS 6.18516, 81.12766 Hambantota Southern

3 Kukule Ganga PS 6.603658, 80.284385 Kalutara Western

4 Matara GSS 5.964836, 80.534977 Matara Southern

5 New Chilaw SS 7.48667, 79.90913 Kurunegala North-western

6 New Habarana SS 8.049847, 80.726377 Anuradhapura North- Central

7 Veyangoda GSS 7.17618, 80.04331 Gampaha Western

8 Ambalangoda GSS 6.282500, 80.074116 Galle Southern

9 Bolawatta GSS 7.29427, 79.86690 Puttalam North-western

10 Galle GSS 6.04615, 80.24608 Galle Southern

11 Horana GSS 6.72948, 80.14074 Kalutara Western

12 Katunayake GSS 7.17590, 79.89420 Gampaha Western

13 Kelaniya GSS 6.969288, 79.916987 Gampaha Western

14 Kotugoda GSS 7.13284, 79.92459 Gampaha Western

15 Padukka SS 6.88071, 80.04816 Colombo Western

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Figure 1: Existing Substations in Five Provinces

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Figure 2: Existing Substations in Nine Districts with Proposed Bay Extensions and New Protection Panels

6. Some of the existing substations are fully operational, some are under construction,

some have construction works ongoing within the substation compound that are unrelated to

the project, while others have associated facilities of the project under construction (Table 3).

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Table 3: Status of Substations

Name Status

Fully Operational

Under Construction Non-Project Related Construction Ongoing

New Anuradhapura GSS

X X (08.12 2018 but now complete)

Hambantota GSS

X

X (21.11.2019 due for completion September 2021) funded by ADB Green Power Development and Energy Efficiency Improvement Investment Project (T2)

Kukule Ganga PS

X

Matara GSS X

New Chilaw SS

X

New Habarana SS

X (as of Jan 2020) due for completion September 2021, includes construction of bay and terminal tower to which project transmission line can connect, substation is funded by JICA

Veyangoda GSS X

X (04.11. 2019) Not yet completed as of June 2021

Ambalangoda GSS

X

Bolawatta GSS

X

Galle GSS X

Horana GSS

X

X (04.12. 2019) Due for completion December 2021 funded by ADB Green Power Development and Energy Efficiency Improvement Investment Project (T2)

Katunayake GSS

X

Kelaniya GSS X

Kotugoda GSS

X

X (04.11. 2019) 132 kV augmentation work and civil work ongoing as of July 2021 funded by ADB Green Power Development and Energy Efficiency Improvement Investment Project (T2)

Padukka SS

X (as of Dec 2019) funded by ADB Clean Energy and Network Efficiency

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Name Status

Fully Operational

Under Construction Non-Project Related Construction Ongoing

Improvement Project, commissioned in May 2020

E. Methodology

7. Per ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) the environment audit is to be

undertaken by an external environment expert. Thus all 15 GSS/SS were visited by the

environment safeguard specialist from Resource Management Associates (Pvt) Ltd. during

December 2018 to January 2020. The environmental audit was based on site visits by the

external environment expert. During the site visit, visual inspections were conducted, and

critical issues were identified as per following criteria.

• General environmental management

• Waste management practices

• Hazardous material management

• Groundwater and soil contamination control

• Health and safety management, and

• Noise management

8. These criteria were translated into a checklist (Annex 1) which was used by the

external environment expert to identify implementation of good practice related to the subject

or issues that need corrective actions to meet ADB’s environment safeguard principles and

requirements.

II. AUDIT FINDINGS

9. No asbestos was observed during the audit, but CEB has been using asbestos cement

roofing sheets for substation construction and so it is likely that some form of asbestos could

be present in these substations. This risk was identified in consultation with CEB and as the

external environment expert who carried out the environmental audit was not a competent

person with respect to asbestos surveying its presence at the substations cannot be ruled out.

A. Findings for Existing Substations for Bay Extensions

(i) New Anuradhapura GSS

10. New Anuradhapura GSS, commissioned in 1998, is located at Shramadana Mawatha

in Gnanikkulama village (Gnanikulama GND, Nuwaragampalatha East DSD), about 1 km from

Galkulama- Anuradhapura main road. It was built on CEB land and the extent is 10 acres (4.2

ha). The old Anuradhapura GSS is at Galkulama-Anuradhapura main road and the distance

between the new and old GSSs is about 900m. Construction of New Anuradhapura-Mannar

220 kV transmission line, and 132 kV transmission line section to Puttalam was underway

during the site visit to the GSS on 8 December 2018. New Anuradhapura GSS has 220 kV

transmission lines from Lak Wijaya coal power plant and Kotmale hydropower station. All

construction work at the GSS was completed, but the site could not be revisited in 2021 due

to COVID-19 restrictions.

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11. The GSS has two outdoor transformers (220/132/33kV), gantries, switchgear, six 33kV

line bays, control room etc. Circuit breakers are not oil filled so will not contain PCBs, but they

do contain sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as insulting medium. There was no information on

major leakages, operators monitor the pressure inside switchgear chambers and any unusual

decrease in pressure to check for SF6 leakage. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296

(2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the presence of

PCBs. The result showed that oil in six transformers having 20.6, 24.35, 34.2, 46.24, 63.77

and 69.27 ppm of PCB. Oil pits are used instead of bunds. Ongoing construction work was

observed during the site visit. The work is being carried out with minimum impact on other

transmission line connections and equipment in the substation. However, the commissioning

and handover checklists would need to have covered environmental, health and safety

aspects to ensure a safe working environment after completion of the construction work. The

GSS is fenced and has warning signs to prevent the public from being exposed to any risk of

electrocution. Equipotential bonding has been carried out for all conductive parts in the GSS

to avoid electrical hazards.

12. GSS workers have access to PPE such as protective helmets (hard hats), insulating

gloves, protective eye wear (safety glasses), high visibility clothing, face shields and enclosed

footwear. Handheld fire extinguishers (water, foam, carbon dioxide, dry power) are found in

the substation buildings, workshop, and office buildings to manage uncontrolled fires.

Operators have been trained to use them. No fire suppression system was installed. Eye wash

provisions are available in the battery room. First aid box is placed in the office of the control

building.

Figure 3: Map of New Anuradhapura Grid Substation

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Note: yellow boundary shows existing GSS, pink boundary shows the area for bay extension under project (this land already belongs to CEB)

Table 4: Physical Features of New Anuradhapura Grid Substation

Features Specification

Name New Anuradhapura Grid Substation

Coordinates 8.296870, 80.451806

Land ownership (CEB/Government/Private)

CEB

Busbar Scheme Double Busbar

Substation type (Indoor/Outdoor) 220/132 kV – Outdoor

Voltage 220/132/33 kV

Switchgear type (AIS/GIS) 220/132 kV – AIS

Insulation medium power circuit breaker SF6

Transformer Oil insulated

Fire protection system description Fire extinguishers

Nearest Protected Area, IBA, PCR, GW well, waterbody etc.

• 7.8km to Anuradhapura sanctuary

• 300m Keerikkulama wewa (tank), 2.1km to Nuwara wewa (tank), 3.7km to Nachchaduwaa wewa (tank)

• 2km to Anuradhapura airport

Nearest building to substation boundary 5 m

Nearest occupied property to substation boundary

5 m to the nearest house

Existing access An asphalt road. No major difficulties in access are anticipated

Figure 4: Photographs of New Anuradhapura Grid Substation

Plate 1. New Anuradhapura GSS. Gantry of Anuradhapura - Habarana 132 kV transmission line

Plate 2. New Anuradhapura GSS control building

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Plate 3. The land earmarked for the construction of bay extension for the New Anuradhapura- New Habarana transmission line

Plate 4. Entrance to the substation

Plate 5. Construction of Mannar 220 kV transmission line terminal tower and bays (8.12.2018)

Plate 6. Construction of bay extensions for of Mannar 220 kV transmission line

Plate 7. Used equipment/parts stored in an open area of the substation

Plate 8. Store facilities are not available

(ii) Hambantota GSS

Hambantota GSS, commissioned in 1999, is located at Keliyapura GND and Hambantota

DSD, bordering Hambantota-Gonnoruwa road, about 6km from Hambantota town. GSS land

is a CEB property and the extent is 15 acres (6.3ha). The land preparation was observed

during the field visit in November 2019 for the construction of 220/132 kV extension of the

Polpitiya-Hambantota 220 kV line (Figure 5), funded under the ADB Green Power

Development & Energy Efficiency Improvement Investment Program (Tranche 2). This work

is still in progress at present (June 2021) and it is planned to be energized by September

2021.

13. The GSS has three outdoor transformers (132/33kV), gantries, switchgear, four 33 kV

line bays, control room etc. None of the circuit breakers uses oil, so will not contain PCBs, but

they do contain SF6 gas. Gas insulated 33kV switchgear also uses SF6. SF6 gas refilling

machine (DILO 87727, Type 3-001.2. R001 Babenhausen, Germany) is available at the GSS.

There was no information on major leakages, operators monitor the pressure inside

switchgear chambers and any unusual decrease in pressure to check for SF6 leakage.

Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the process of

testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The result showed that oil in three

transformers having 9.6 to 19.87 ppm of PCB. Oils pits are used instead of bunds. The GSS

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is fenced and has warning signs to prevent the public from being exposed to any risk of

electrocution.




substation buildings, workshop, and office buildings to manage uncontrolled fires. Further, a

fire detection system is not installed in the control building. Eye wash provisions are available

in the battery room. First aid facilities are available in the control building. Substation is clean,

the provision of general facilities and yard maintenance were seen to be carried out

appropriately.

Figure 5: Map of Hambantota Grid Substation

Table 5: Physical Features of Hambantota Grid Substation


Name Hambantota Grid Substation

Coordinates 6.18515, 81.12766


CEB


Substation type (Indoor/Outdoor) 132 kV – Outdoor 33 kV – Indoor

Voltage 132/33 kV 220 kV is under construction

Switchgear type (AIS/GIS) 132 kV – AIS 33 kV – GIS

Insulation medium power circuit breaker SF6 Gas



Nearest Protected Area, IBA, PCR, building, GW well, occupied property, waterbody etc.

• 7 km to Bundala National Park

• 7.6 km to Dry Zone Botanic Gardens

• 4.2 Maha Lewaya saltern, 4.5 Koholankala saltern

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• 6.5 km Hambantota Harbor, 9 km to Mattala international airport



480 m to the nearest house

Existing access Paved road suitable for construction traffic

Figure 6: Photographs of Hambantota Grid Substation

Plate 1. Hambantota GSS Plate 2. Switchgear in the yard

Plate 3. Yard and control building Plate 4. Hambantota GSS

Plate 5. Bunds prepared for a new transformer

(iii) Kukule Ganga PS

15. Kukule Ganga Power Station switch yard is located in Pelpola village Kelinkanda GND

and Palindanuwara DSD, 6km downstream from the dam on Kukule river in

Ratnapura/Kalutara districts. Kukule 70MW underground hydroelectric power plant was

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commissioned in 2003 and it produces 317 GW hours annually. The extent of switch yard is

7 acres (3.1 ha) and a property of CEB. A 27 km 132 kV transmission line to Matugama GSS

originates from the switch yard.

Space for two bay extensions has been allowed during construction of the switch yard and

these extension areas will be used by the project to connect the 132 kV transmission line from

Kalawana grid substation. Circuit breakers are not oil filled so will not contain PCBs, but they

do contain sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as insulting medium. The transformer found in the

power station switch yard is an auxiliary transformer with small capacity to provide electricity

to the power station control room, CEB has not yet tested it for PCBs. The substation is fenced

and has warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of

electrocution.

16. Kukule Ganga PS workers have access to PPE such as protective helmets (hard hats),

insulating gloves, protective eye wear (safety glasses), high visibility clothing, face shields and

enclosed footwear. Hand-held fire extinguishers (water, foam, carbon dioxide, dry power) are

found in the switch yard control building, workshop, and office buildings to manage

uncontrolled fires. There is a detection system in the control building but no fire suppression

system. First aid facilities are available in the control building, but eye wash facilities were not

seen. There is a river adjacent to the substation, but it is not considered to be at any flood

risk.

Figure 7: Map of Kukule Ganga Power Station

Table 6: Physical Features of Kukule Power Station


Name Kukule Ganga PS

Coordinates 6.603658, 80.284385

Land ownership (CEB/ Government/ Private)

CEB

Busbar Scheme -

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Substation type (Indoor/Outdoor) Outdoor

Voltage 132/33 kV

Switchgear type (AIS/GIS) AIS




Nearest Protected Area, IBA, PCR, building, GW well, waterbody etc.

• 8.7 km to Morapitiya Forest Reserve Forest Reserve

• 56 m to Kukule River, 4.7 km to Kukule Reservoir

• 21.8 km to Sinharaja World Heritage site

Nearest building to switch yard boundary 20 m

Nearest occupied property to switch yard boundary

96 m to nearest house


Figure 8: Photographs of Kukule Power Station Switch Yard

Plate 1. Kukule Power Station Switch Yard entrance

Plate 2. Terminal tower of Matugama 132 kV transmission line

Plate 3. Switchgear Plate 4. Kukule switchgear and auxiliary power

transformer

(iv) Matara GSS

17. Matara GSS is located in Hitthatiya East 420 A GND and Matara Four Gravets DSD,

about 2.5km from Matara city centre. GSS land, 4.1 acre (1.7 ha), is a property of CEB. The

Commissioner of Agrarian Services has given the approval to fill the existing paddy land

(Godella Kumbura) with the extent of 4 acres, 01 Roods and 19 Perches, on 22nd December

1995 to construct the GSS. It was commissioned in June 1999. GSS land and the surrounding

area has been declared as Matara Kiralakele Sanctuary (333 ha) on 8th September 2003 by

the Department of Wildlife Conservation, i.e., it was declared after the substation was in

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operation. Two 132 kV transmission lines from Galle and Embilipitiya connect the grid

substation. The extent of land required for the new control building and two bay extensions for

the proposed transmission line to Hambantota GSS is available within the existing GSS

premises.

18. The GSS has three outdoor transformers (132/33kV), gantries, switchgear, six 33 kV

line bays, control room etc. Circuit breakers are not oil filled so will not contain PCBs, but they

do contain sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as insulting medium. Transformers use TRANSOL

IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the

presence of PCBs. The result showed that oil in three transformers having 5.77 to 25.94 ppm

of PCB. Oil pits are used instead of bunds. The substation is fenced and has warning signs

to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution. Equipotential

bonding has been carried out for all conductive parts in the GSS to avoid electrical hazards.



footwear. Hand held fire extinguishers (water, foam, carbon dioxide, dry power) are found in

substation buildings, workshop, and office buildings to manage uncontrolled fires. Fire

detection facility is not found in the control building. Eye wash provisions are not available in

battery room. First aid box is available at the office.

20. Several barrels of transformer oil were seen in an open area during the site visit on 21

November 2019. Transformer oil leaks were also observed in two transformers, and it was

unclear if the oil pits are 110% capacity. Substation is in floodplain are reported flooded on

29.5.2017.

21. In relation to bird sensitive design, insulators are installed at the existing substation.

Figure 9: Map of Matara Grid Substation

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Table 7: Physical Features of Matara Grid Substation


Name Matara Grid Substation

Coordinates 5.96470, 80.53445

Land ownership (CEB/ Government/ Private)

CEB

Busbar Scheme Single Busbar


Voltage 132/33 kV






• Located within the Kiralakele sanctuary close to flood control canals, 5.7 km to Kekunaduara Forest Reserve,

• 1.6 km to Nilwala River,

• 1.6 km to Matara Railway station





Figure 10: Photographs of Matara Grid Substation

Plate 1. Matara GSS entrance Plate 2. Terminal tower and open area

Plate 3. Gantries Plate 4. Matara GSS switchgear

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Plate 5. Stacks of transformer oil barrels next to the control building (to be transported to a store in another substation)

Plate 6. Oil leak in a transformer

Plate 3. Oil leak is visible Plate 4. The Commissioner of Agrarian Services has given the approval to fill the land for the construction of Matara grid substation in 1995, extent: 4 acres, 01 roods and 19 perches.

B. Findings for Existing Substations for Installation of New Protection Panels

(i) New Chilaw GSS

22. This substation is located at Anguruwa village in Dummalasuriya GND, Udubaddawa

DSD, in Kurunegala district. GSS land is 4 acres (1.6 ha) in extent and the adjacent 15 acres

(6.3ha) of land is earmarked for the maintenance division of CEB. The GSS was

commissioned in 2013. It receives 220 kV transmission line from Norochcholai coal power

plant. A 220 kV transmission line to Veyangoda, two 132 kV transmission lines to Madampe,

one 132 kV transmission line to Pannala and one to Katunayaka/Bolawatta originate from this

GSS.

23. The GSS has two outdoor transformers (220/132/33kV), gantries, switchgear, control

room etc. Circuit breakers are not oil filled so will not contain PCBs, but they do contain sulfur

hexafluoride (SF6) gas as insulting medium. There was no information on major leakages,

operators monitor the pressure inside switchgear chambers and any unusual decrease in

pressure to check for SF6 leakage. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003)

transformer oil. CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs.

Two transformers of the GSS are having 10.12 and 13.19 ppm PCB in transformer oil. Oil pit

is used to catch any leaking transformer oil The GSS is fenced and has warning signs to

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prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution. Equipotential





substation buildings, workshop, and office buildings to manage uncontrolled fires. There is no

fire suppression system. Eye wash provisions were not available in the battery room. First aid

box and a publication on the safety rules of CEB is available in the office of control building.

There is a canal adjacent, but there are no flood/drainage issues.

Figure 11: Map of New Chilaw Grid Substation

Table 8: Physical Features of New Chilaw Grid Substation


Name New Chilaw Grid Substation

Coordinates 7.48667, 79.90913

Land ownership (CEB/Government/Private) CEB









• 7.2 km to Panirendawa FR, 14.5 km to Kankaniyamulla FR

• 35 m to a canal, 365 m to Karambalan oya (stream)


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Figure 12: Photographs of New Chilaw Grid Substation

Plate 1. New Chilaw GSS control building Plate 2. Gantries

Plate 3. Two outdoor transformers (220/132 kV) Plate 4. Switchgear

Plate 5. Fire extinguishers in control building Plate 6. Control panels

(ii) New Habarana Switching Station

25. New Habarana Switching Station (220/132/33kV) is under construction (January 2020)

in a 15-acre land (6.3 ha) bordering Habarana-Maradankadawal road at Palugaswewa village

(Palugaswewa 3 GND and Palugaswewa DSD) in Anuradhapura district. It is being

constructed under JICA funding as a central substation connecting the eastern province

(through Trinco) with the north (through Anuradhapura) and south (through Veyangoda). JICA

is also funding construction of the transmission line to Veyangoda GSS which is a gateway to

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Colombo load center. Grid connection for power generation in Trinco will also be provided

through New Habarana substation in addition to the connection to the north through

Anuradhapura with 0.5 km connection line from Kotmale - New Anuradhapura transmission

line.2

26. This site was visited on 23 January 2020. A bay and terminal tower which can be used

by the proposed New Anuradhapura-New Habarana 220 kV transmission line were under

already construction as part of the substation (Figure 14).3 Six transformers have been

installed by January 2020. The transformers will be bunded and will not use PCB contaminated

oil as these are now CEB’s design standards. SF6 will be used in all circuit breakers and CEB

specifications include necessary detection and warning against leakages and handling

requirements for SF6.

27. It is still under construction as of June 2021 and due for completion in September 2021.

Figure 13: Map of New Habarana Switching Station

Table 9: Physical Features of New Habarana Switching Station


Name New Habarana Switching Station

Coordinates 8.049907, 80.726281

Land ownership / Extent (CEB/Government/Private)

CEB



2 JICA. 2011. Data Collection Survey on Transmission and Distribution Loss Reduction in Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka https://openjicareport.jica.go.jp/pdf/12040184_01.pdf 3 Substation construction is not an associated facility of the project. However, an equipped bay and terminal tower that can be used by the project is under construction. Installing these in advance of transmission line construction avoids the need to connect it to the bay later, and interrupt substation operation.

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Transformer Oil Insulated



• 3.2 km to Galapitagala Conservation Forest, 3.8 to Hurulu Conservation Forest, 8.5 km to Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve, 12.8 km to Minneriya National Park, 9.6 km to Inamaluwa Forest Reserve





Figure 14: Photographs of New Habarana Grid Substation

Plate 1. New Habarana GSS-gantry of 220 kV transmission line

Plate 2. Terminal tower that can be used for the connection of New Anuradhapura-New Habarana 220 kV transmission line, 4 tower footings visible

Plate 3. Gantries and switchgear under construction

Plate 4. The path of New Anuradhapura-New Habarana 220 kV transmission line in the scrubland

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Plate 5. The footings of terminal tower and gantry that can be used for the New Anuradhapura- New Habarana 220 kV transmission line

Plate 6. Transformers 220/132 kV, at New Habarana SS

(iii) Veyangoda GSS

28. The GSS, commissioned in 2002, is located along Udugama road, off Divulapitiya

road, amidst home gardens and coconut plantations. The extent of the land is 8 acres (3.2

ha). This GSS receives two 220 kV transmission lines from New Chilaw and Kotugoda

substations. New Habarana-Veyangoda 220 kV transmission line and 2 x 220 kV double bus

bar transmission line bays are under construction (November 2019). CEB informed that it has

not been completed yet, June 2021.

29. The GSS has two outdoor transformers (220/132/33kV), gantries, switchgear, control

room, eight 33 kV feeders (indoor) etc. Circuit breakers are not oil filled so will not contain

PCBs, but they do contain sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as insulting medium. Gas insulated

33kV switchgear also uses SF6. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer

oil. CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The PCB levels

of transformer oil were tested and five transformers are having 13.15, 18.67, 30.76, 53.46 and

55.18 ppm. Oil pits are present to contain any leaking transformer oil. The substation is fenced

and has warning signs to prevent the public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution.

Equipotential bonding has been carried out for all conductive parts in the GSS to avoid

electrical hazards.




substation buildings, workshop, and office buildings to manage uncontrolled fires. A fire

detection system is not installed in the control building. Eye wash provisions were available in

the battery room. First aid box was placed in the office room of control building.

23

Figure 15: Map of Veyangoda Grid Substation

Table 10: Physical Features of Veyangoda Grid Substation


Name Veyangoda Grid Substation

Coordinates 7.177008, 80.042010



Substation type (Indoor/Outdoor) 220 kV and 132 kV – Outdoor 33 kV – Indoor


Switchgear type (AIS/GIS) 220 kV and 132 kV – AIS 33 kV – GIS





• 8.8 Kotakanda FR,

• 17.5 to Katunayaka airport





24

Figure 16: Photographs of Veyangoda Grid Substation

Plate 1. Veyangoda grid substation, 220/132 kV transformers

Plate 2. Gantries and switchgear

Plate 3. 220/132 kV transformer Plate 4. Bay extensions

Plate 5. Construction of 2 x 220 kV bay extension (November 2019)

Plate 6. Veyangoda GSS

(iv) Ambalangoda GSS

31. This 132/33 kV GSS, commissioned in 2009, is located at Unagaswela GND in

Ambalangoda DSD, Galle district, in a 2.7-acre (1.1ha) land. It is situated in the middle of

Unagaswela village and about 150 houses are found within the 500m radius of GSS. The

distance to Madu Ganga wetlands is about 500m from the GSS boundary. The surrounding

area consists of paddy fields, cinnamon cultivated lands, coconut lands and home gardens.

The proposed modifications to protection panels will facilitate the improvement of reliability

and quality of power supply of LILO (from existing Ambalangoda-Galle 132 kV transmission

line) to the proposed Baddegama GSS. Two transmission lines currently connect, the

Ambalangoda-Galle 132 kV transmission line and the Ambalangoda-Matugama 132 kV

transmission line.

25

32. The GSS has two outdoor transformers (132/33kV), gantries, outdoor switchyard,

control building, five 33 kV feeders etc. Circuit breakers are not oil filled so will not contain

PCBs, but they do contain sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas as insulting medium. The bay

extension is also SF6 GIS. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil.

CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The measured

PCB levels in two transformers were 13.74 and 13.22 ppm. Oil pits are used to contain any

transformer oil leakage. The substation is fenced and has warning signs to prevent the general

public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution. Equipotential bonding has been carried

out for all conductive parts in the GSS to avoid electrical hazards.





detection system is installed in the control building. Eye wash provisions were available in the

battery room. First aid box was placed in the office room of control building. There is a river

within 500m but no flood risk posed by it.

Figure 17: Map of Ambalangoda Grid Substation

26

Table 21: Physical Features of Ambalangoda Grid Substation


Name Ambalangoda grid substation

Land ownership (CEB/Government/Private)/ Extent

CEB

Coordinates 6.282504 80.074121

Busbar Scheme Main Busbar

Substation type Outdoor

Voltage 132/33 kV

Switchgear type Original existing: AIS Existing bay extension: GIS


Transformer Oil cooled

Distance to nearest PA, IBA, PCR, building, GW well, Water body etc.

• Yakkatuwa Forest Reserve 6.7 km,

• Madu Ganga (River/Estuary) 500 m, sea 4.3 km,

• 6.5 km to Southern Expressway





27

Figure 18: Photographs of Ambalangoda Grid Substation

Plate 1. Existing transformers and the GIS Plate 2. Control building

Plate 3. Space for new development Plate 4. Five 33 kV feeder bays

Note: photographs were taken on 30th September 2019

(v) Bolawatta GSS

34. Bolawatta GSS, commissioned in 1988, is located in an urban area of Gonavila South

GND, Dankotuwa DSD in Puttalam district. It has 5 acres (2ha) of land and the distance to

Colombo- Puttalam main road is 2 km. About 400 houses with home gardens dominated by

coconut trees and eight roof-tile factories are found within 500m radius of the GSS. It receives

132 kV transmission line from Katunayaka GSS.

35. The GSS has three outdoor transformers (31.5 MVA), gantries, breaker switched

capacitor bays, outdoor switchgear, control building, seventeen 33 kV feeders etc. Circuit

breakers are not oil filled so will not contain PCBs, but some do contain sulfur hexafluoride

(SF6) gas as insulting medium. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer

oil. CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The result

showed that oil in three transformers having 16.32 to 58.28 ppm of PCB. Oil pits are present

to contain any leaking transformer oil. The substation is fenced and has warning signs to





footwear. Hand held fire extinguishers (water, foam, carbon dioxide, dry power) are found in

28


detection system is installed in the control building. Eye wash provisions were available in the

battery room. First aid box was placed in the office room of control building.

37. Store facilities for damaged switchgear and transformer oil barrels are not available in

the GSS. It is observed that these are kept in an open area of the switchyard.

Figure 19: Map of Bolawatta Grid Substation

Table 12: Physical Features of Bolawatta Grid Substation


Name Bolawatta Grid Substation

Coordinates 7.293456, 79.865895


CEB



Voltage 132/33 kV


Insulation medium power circuit breaker SF6 Gas/Vacuum




• 6.2km Kalumukalana Conservation Forest,

• 1.4 km to Ma oya (River), 3.0 km to the sea,

• 11.2 to Katunayake airport





29

Figure 20: Photographs of Bolawatta Grid Substation

Plate 1. Bolawatta GSS Plate 2. Transformers (31.5 MVA)

Plate 3. Gantry and busbar Plate 4. Breaker switched capacitor bays

Plate 5. Fire extinguishers Plate 6. Information on different types of fire

(vi) Galle GSS

38. The GSS, commissioned in 2015, is located in an urban area of Bataduwa GND in

Akmeemana DSD in Galle district. CEB has a 7-acre (2.8ha) land for this substation bordering

Galle-Udugama road. A paddy land is found in the western part of the GSS. A number of

buildings, houses, home gardens and paddy lands are located in 500 km radius of the GSS.

This GSS receives three 132 kV transmission lines from Matara, Balangoda and

Ambalangoda GSSs, respectively. A LILO from Galle-Ambalangoda 132 kV transmission line

will connect to the proposed Baddegama GSS. Therefore, modifications to protection panels

at Galle GSS are required.

39. The GSS has three outdoor transformers (132/33 kV), 132 kV six bays, double busbar,

gantries, outdoor switchgear, control building, 33 kV indoor GIS (13 feeders) etc. Circuit

30

breakers are not oil filled so will not contain PCBs, but they do contain sulfur hexafluoride

(SF6) gas as insulting medium. Gas insulated 33kV switchgear also uses SF6. Transformers

use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the process of testing its

transformers for the presence of PCBs. The measured PCB levels in transformer oil were

10.7, 12.12 and 12.5 ppm. Oil pits are installed to contain leakage. The substation is fenced

and has warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of

electrocution. Equipotential bonding has been carried out for all conductive parts in the GSS

to avoid electrical hazards.





detection system is installed in the control building. Eye wash provisions are available in the

battery room. First aid box was placed in the office room of control building.

41. Store facilities are not available in the GSS.

Figure 21: Map of Galle Grid Substation

Table 33: Physical Features of Galle Grid Substation


Name Galle Grid Substation

Coordinates 6.04615, 80.24608


CEB



Voltage 132/33 kV


31






• 2.6 km to Rumassala Forest Reserve, 10 km to Kottawa- Kombala Forest Reserve

• 1.6 km to the sea, 7.8 to Hiyare reservoir,

• 3.0 km to Southern Expressway





Figure 22: Photographs of Galle Grid Substation

Plate 1. Galle GSS entrance Plate 2. Transformers

Plate 3. Busbar and transformers Plate 4. Gantries and transformers

(vii) Horana GSS

42. Horana GSS, commissioned in February 2005, is situated in a 4-acre (1.6ha) land at

Poruwadanda village in Kekulaliya GND and Ingiriya DSD, Kalutara district. The GSS is about

1.5 km from Panadura- Ratnapura main road and surrounded by rubber plantations. The GSS

land is located within the Horana Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Board of Investment, Sri

Lanka (Figure 23). Horana GSS receives two 132 kV transmission lines from Matugama and

Pannipitiya GSSs. Two 132 kV bay extensions are under construction (December 2019) and

construction is still ongoing as of July 2021, with works due for completion by December 2021.

43. The GSS has three outdoor transformers (132/33 kV), 132 kV bays, double busbar,

gantries, outdoor switchgear, control building, 33 kV indoor GIS (18 feeders) etc. None of the

circuit breakers uses oil, so will not contain PCBs, but some do contain SF6 gas. Gas insulated

32

33kV switchgear also uses SF6. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer

oil. CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The PCB

levels of transformers were 10.57, 93.97 and 124.11 ppm. Oil pits were installed to contain

any leakages from the transformers. The substation is fenced and has warning signs to





footwear. Handheld fire extinguishers (water, foam, carbon dioxide) are found in substation

buildings, workshop, and office buildings to manage uncontrolled fires. A fire detection system

is installed in the control building. Eye wash provisions are available in the battery room. First

aid box was placed in the office room of control building.

45. Store facilities were being built (December 2019) and were completed in August 2020.

Figure 23: Location of GSS (top left) in Horana Export Processing Zone

33

Figure 24: Map of Horana Grid Substation

Table 14: Physical Features of Horana Grid Substation

Name Horana Grid Substation

Coordinates 6.72948, 80.14074




Voltage 132/33 kV

Switchgear type (AIS/GIS)0 132 kV – AIS 33 kV – GIS

Insulation medium power circuit breaker SF6 Gas/Vacuum




589m to Dombagakanda Forest Reserve, 1.6 km to Edurugala Conservation Forest 676 m to Kalu Ganga river

Nearest building to substation boundary 94 m to the nearest building, 150 m to BOI factories




34

Figure 25: Photographs of Horana Grid Substation

Plate 1. Horana GSS Plate 2 Switchgear

Plate 3. Control building Plate 4. Two bay extensions under construction (4 December 2019)

Plate 5. New bay extensions under construction Plate 6. New bay extensions under construction

35

Plate 7. Breaker switched capacitor banks Plate 8. Transformers 132/33 kV

(viii) Katunayake GSS

46. Katunayaka GSS, commissioned in 2010, situated at the boundary of Katunayaka

Export Processing Zone (BOI) towards the north of the facility. The extent of the land is 3

acres (1.2ha) in Evariwatta GND and Katana DSD in Gampaha district. Augmentation of

Katunayake GSS was carried out in 2019, that includes installation of 31.5 MVA transformer,

construction of 1x132 kV single bus bar transformer bay, 1x33 kV transformer bay, 4x33 kV

feeder bays and 1x33 kV bus section bay. This substation connects Kotugoda and Bolawatta

GSSs with 132 kV transmission lines.

47. The GIS has three outdoor transformers (132/33kV), gantries, switchgear, twelve 33

kV feeders (indoor GIS), capacitor banks, control room etc. None of the circuit breakers uses

oil, so will not contain PCBs, but they do contain SF6 gas. Gas insulated 33kV switchgear also

uses SF6. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the

process of testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The PCB levels of two

transformers were 16.01 and 56.90 ppm. Oil pit is present to contain oil leaks from the

transformers. The substation is fenced and has warning signs to prevent the general public

from being exposed to any risk of electrocution. Equipotential bonding has been carried out

for all conductive parts in the GSS to avoid electrical hazards.





detection facility is found in the control building but no fire suppression. First aid kit is available.

Eye wash provisions are available in the battery room.

49. Storage facilities are not available in the GSS.

36

Figure 26: Map of Katunayake Grid Substation

Figure 27: Katunayake Export Processing Zone and the Location of Substation

37

Table15: Physical Features of Katunayake Grid Substation


Name Katunayake Grid Substation

Coordinates 7.17590, 79.89420


CEB



Voltage 132/33 kV






• 3.1 km to Negombo lagoon, 6.7 km to Muthurajawela wetland

• Located outside the BOI land, 700m to the airport





Figure 28: Photographs of Katunayake Grid Substation

Plate 1. Entrance to Katunayake GSS Plate 2. Terminal tower and busbar

Plate 3. Control building Plate 4. Transformers and gantry

38

Plate 5. Transformer Plate 6. Gantry

(ix) Kelaniya GSS

50. Kelaniya GSS, commissioned in 1998, is situated at R.S. Perera Mawatha, Kelaniya

in Nungamugoda GND and Kelaniya DSD in Gampaha district. The distance from GSS to

Colombo- Kandy main road is 220 m. It has a 2.3-acre (0.93ha) land and connects to

Sapugaskanda, Kolonnawa and Kotugoda GSS by 132 kV transmission lines.

51. The GSS has three outdoor transformers (132/33kV), gantries, switchgear, six 33 kV

feeders (indoor GIS), control room etc. None of the circuit breakers uses oil, so will not contain

PCBs, but they do contain SF6 gas. Gas insulated 33kV switchgear also uses SF6.

Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the process of

testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The PCB levels of two transformers were

9.19 and 68.24 ppm. Oil pits are provided to contain oil leaks from transformers. The

substation is fenced and has warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed

to any risk of electrocution. Equipotential bonding has been carried out for all conductive parts

in the GSS to avoid electrical hazards.





detection facility is found in the control building but no fire suppression. First aid kit is available.

Eye wash provisions are available in the battery room.


39

Figure 29: Map of Kelaniya Grid Substation

Table 4: Physical Features of Kelaniya Grid Substation


Name Kelaniya Grid Substation

Coordinates 6.969288, 79.916987


CEB

Busbar Scheme Double


Voltage 132/33 kV






• 2.3 km to Kelani river, 5.3 km to the sea

• 1.9 km to Kelaniya temple

• 2.3 km to Katunayaka expressway

Nearest building to substation boundary 8m, 360 m to Kelaniya university




40

Figure 30: Photographs of Kelaniya Grid Substation

Plate 1. Kelaniya GSS, switchgear Plate 2. Control building and GIS

Plate 3. Transformers, gantry and busbar Plate 4. Gantry and busbar

(x) Kotugoda GSS

54. Kotugoda GSS, commissioned in 1983, is situated in a 6-acre (2.4ha) land at Ekala-

Kotadeniyawa main road in Opatha GND and Minuwangoda DSD in Gampaha district. It

connects Biyagama, Veyangoda and Kerawalapitiya substations by three 220 kV transmission

lines, and Katunayaka substation with a 132 kV transmission line. Construction of new bay

extension, 132 kV augmentation work and other civil works were observed during the site visit

in November 2019. This work is ongoing (July 2021) and funded by the ADB Green Power

Development and Energy Efficiency Improvement Investment Project (T2).

55. The GSS has three outdoor transformers (220/132/33kV), gantries, switchgear,

thirteen 33 kV feeders with indoor GIS, control room etc. None of the circuit breakers uses oil,

so will not contain PCBs, but they do contain SF6 gas. Gas insulated 33kV switchgear also

uses SF6. Transformers use TRANSOL IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the

process of testing its transformers for the presence of PCBs. The PCB levels of eight

transformers were 25.25, 25.59, 27.66, 28.69, 29.72, 29.72, 32.48 and 36.95 ppm. Oil pit is

used to contain leaking transformer oil. The substation is fenced and has warning signs to






41


detection facility is found in the control building but no fire suppression system. First aid kit is

available. Eye wash provisions are available in the battery room.


Figure 31: Map of Kotugoda Grid Substation

Table 17: Physical Features of Kotugoda Grid Substation


Name Kotugoda Grid Substation

Coordinates 7.13284, 79.92459


CEB / 6 acres


Substation type (Indoor/Outdoor) 220 kV and 132 kV – Outdoor 33 kV – Indoor


Switchgear type (AIS/GIS) 220 kV and 132 kV – AIS 33 kV – GIS





• 654 m to Dadugam oya, 6 km to Negombo lagoon, 5.8 km to Muthurajawela wetland

• 6.2 m Katunayaka airport





42

Figure 32: Photographs of Kotugoda Grid Substation

Plate 1. Entrance to Kotugoda GSS Plate 2. Gantry

Plate 3. Control building/ GIS Plate 4. Double busbar

Plate 5. Transformers Plate 6. Kotugoda switchgear

Plate 7. New bay extension under construction

43

(xi) Padukka Switching Station

58. Padukka switching station is situated at Batawala GND and Homagama DSD, in

Colombo district. The land area of the station is about 15 acres (6ha). About 100 houses and

home gardens, two temples and rubber lands are found within 500m radius of the switching

station. Construction work was almost completed as observed during the field visit on 4

December 2019. This work was funded by the ADB Clean Energy and Network Efficiency

Improvement Project. The augmentation of the switching station was funded by the ADB

Green Power Development and Energy Efficiency Improvement Investment Project, Tranche

2. The commissioning of the switching station was completed in May 2020. The switching

station will receive a 220 kV transmission line from Polpitiya GSS and next it will connect to

the Pannipitiya GSS. In addition, two 132 kV transmission lines starting at Padukka will

connect Horana and Athurugiriya substations.

59. The switching station has six outdoor transformers (220/132 kV), gantries, switchgear,

control room etc. None of the circuit breakers uses oil, so will not contain PCBs, but they do

contain SF6 gas. Gas insulated 33kV switchgear also uses SF6. Transformers use TRANSOL

IEC 60296 (2003) transformer oil. CEB is in the process of testing its transformers for the

presence of PCBs. The PCB levels of transformers oil were not tested as of June 2021. Oil pit

is present to contain oil leaks from the transformers. The switching station is fenced and has

warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution.

Equipotential bonding has been carried out for all conductive parts in the GSS to avoid

electrical hazards.

60. Switching station workers have access to PPE such as protective helmets (hard hats),

insulating gloves, protective eye wear (safety glasses), high visibility clothing, face shields and

enclosed footwear. Handheld fire extinguishers (water, foam, carbon dioxide, dry power) are

found in switching station buildings, workshop and office buildings to manage uncontrolled

fires. Fire detection facility is found in the control building but there is no fire suppression

system. First aid kit is available on site. Eye wash provisions are available in the battery room.

61. Storage facilities are available in the switching station.

44

Figure 33: Map of Padukka Switching Station

Table18: Physical Features of Padukka Switching Station


Name Padukka Switching Station

Coordinates 6.88071, 80.04816



Substation type (Indoor/Outdoor) 220/132 kV – Outdoor


Switchgear type (AIS/GIS)0 220/132 kV – AIS





9.8 km to Miriyagalla Forest Reserve 3 km to Kelani River, 13.2 km to Labugama Kalatuwawa reservoir





45

Figure 34: Photographs of Padukka Switching Station

Plate 1. Contractor’s signboard Plate 2. Gantries and busbar

Plate 3. Switchgear and Control Building Plate 4. Terminal tower and bay extension under

construction

Plate 5. Eye wash basin in battery room Plate 6. Fire extinguishers at control building

C. Findings of the Environment Audit

62. 15 GSS/SS lands are property of CEB. The required land area for construction of bay

extensions in the four substations is available within the existing substation premises/CEB

lands. Also, the required space for modifications to protection systems in eleven GSS/SS is

available within the control rooms/buildings.

63. GSS/SS audited that are under operation were found to be in compliance with the laws

and regulations of Sri Lanka. CEB has been found to be adequately responsive on

environmental safeguards during the operation of existing facilities, however, improvements

are required.

46

64. CEB conducts maintenance works, follows waste management practices, groundwater

and soil contamination control, and occupational health and safety management in GSS/SS.

GSS/SS are all fenced or having a boundary wall and have warning signs to prevent the

general public being exposed to any risk of electrocution. Safety kits (PPE, first aid box, fire

buckets, and, fire extinguishers) are available, but not at adequate quantities in some GSS/SS.

In some substations PPE was insufficient, in terms of adequate supplies for all staff to wear.

Noise was not identified as an issue of concern at the operational GSS/SS e.g., no transformer

hum audible; but noise is not quantitatively monitored. EMF levels within and adjacent to the

GSS/SS are also not quantitatively monitored. GSS/SS are earthed and has protective shields

to minimize radiation and magnetic field effects.

65. CEB is in the process of carrying out PCB testing of its transformers to confirm if they

use PCB. Full results are awaited but PCB contamination >50 ppm has been found in several

of the project substations/transformers whilst nearly all other transformers contain PCB levels

<50 ppm.

66. Transformers have adequate oil pit/bunding.

67. SF6 is found in all circuit breakers instead of oil. CEB do no keep records of SF6

leakage.

68. Handling of hazardous material (e.g., transformer oil) needs to be improved especially

storage arrangements, as empty/filled oil barrels are seen stacked in open areas of several

GSS/SS, and the prevention of spillage, though it has been observed in only one (Matara

GSS). Waste management, handling, storage, and disposal was seen to be a problem in most

of the substations. There were no written hazardous material/waste management plans or

Environment, Health and Safety management plans and guidelines for personnel available for

each GSS/SS – CEB does not have these documents at company level either. Pieces of solid

wastes (removed parts of switchgear, cables, scraps etc.) had no specific and designated area

for collection and storage, and there was no organized disposal mechanism. Transformer oil

barrels, which are either empty or filled with oil, damaged switchgear, used conductors, and

other wastes are stored in open areas in some GSS/SS. Substation facilities should designate

special segregated area or sheds for solid and hazardous waste collection until proper

disposal. Most of the substations are not having stores/storage areas to keep these materials

until these items are removed from the GSS/SS. Further, yard cleaning is required in New

Anuradhapura GSS, Kukule Ganga Power Station, Matara GSS, Bolawatta GSS and Galle

GSS.

69. Drinking water and toilet facilities are available; designated eating area and cooking

facilities are not available.

70. Most substations are not at flood risk, but one was reported to be underwater in 2017.

71. It is felt that CEB is required to carry out corrective measure mentioned in the CAP for

compliance in regards of ADB Safeguards Policy Statement (2009) and the IFC EHS

Guidelines.

47

72. Based on the findings of environmental compliance audit, it can be concluded that the

CEB has capacity to comply with environmental safeguards during the construction of bay

extensions and operation of substations.

D. Corrective Action Plan

73. The CAP responds to the audit findings and must be completed by CEB before the

commencement of 220 kV bay extension at New Anuradhapura GSS, 132 kV bay extensions

in Hambantota GSS, Kukule Ganga Power Station and Matara GSS and installation of

protection panels.

Table 5: Environmental Issues and Corrective Actions

S.no. Issue Corrective Action By whom By when Budget (source)

1 Under construction substations/substations with ongoing construction works including those works that are non-project related Commissioning and handover checklists to cover environmental, health and safety aspects to ensure a safe working environment after completion of the construction work.

CEB to ensure that works have been undertaken in accordance with any applicable EMP requirements and national laws and regulations; new transformers installed are certified PCB free and have bund/oil pit to 110% of volume; no asbestos containing materials have been used in construction including asbestos cement in the roofs of control buildings – to be confirmed by a competent person; suitably designed drainage and storage areas are provided; all solid and hazardous construction waste has been removed from site; all health and safety provisions that are the responsibility of the contractor have been provided. e.g., first aid boxes and fire extinguishers; substation boundary is secure and warning signage is in place; and the substation has been left in a clean and tidy state with no leftover debris, trip hazards etc.

CEB On handover from existing contractor/before the commencement of construction

Construction Contract

2 Health and Safety of Staff Staff need to be provided and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times

CEB to ensure that adequate stocks of PPE (protective helmets (hard hats), insulating gloves, protective eye wear (safety glasses), high visibility clothing, face shields and enclosed footwear) are provided at the existing substations and worn at all times as appropriate to the tasks being undertaken/in appropriate areas in accordance with Table 2.7.1. Summary of Recommended Personal Protective Equipment According to Hazard in EHS Guideline on OHS. CEB to conduct health and safety awareness raising workshops for all existing substation staff, training is stress (i) the importance of health and safety and thus the wearing of PPE at all times to effect a behavioral/attitudinal change within the staff and (ii) the presence of, ability to recognize

CEB SS Manager with support DGM H&S/ESU

Immediately CEB O&M

48


and risks presented from any asbestos present in the existing substations (including use of asbestos cement roofs) and the importance of staff not disturbing it unless they are competent and adequate control measures are in place to contain any asbestos dust. CEB to encourage PPE to be actively worn by staff by introducing and implementing an incentive/disciplinary system for SS

Manager and individual staff.

3 Health and Safety Equipment H&S equipment such as incomplete first aid box, lesser quantities of fire buckets and fire extinguishers needs to be addressed

CEB to ensure complete first aid kits and sufficient quantities of fire safety buckets and fire extinguishers are available at the existing substations. CEB to develop a Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) on first aid and firefighting provision and emergency response to be adopted by all GSS/SS. CEB to provide eye-wash stations and/or emergency showers close to all workstations where immediate flushing with water is the recommended first-aid response e.g., battery rooms. CEB to ensure that a qualified first-aider is available on-site (can be an existing member of staff) such that first-aid can be provided at all times. CEB to ensure that appropriately equipped first-aid stations are easily accessible throughout the place of work, they are to be signed, include a list of first-aid equipment, and use by dates as well as poster of the first aid procedures and emergency contact details/local hospital CEB to ensure that a fire marshal is always provided on-site (can be an existing member of staff) trained in emergency procedures to follow in event of fire CEB to ensure firefighting equipment maintained in good working order (e.g., last date of servicing not expired) and readily accessible – number to be adequate for size of premises, equipment installed, physical and chemical properties of substances present, and the maximum number of people present. CEB to install fire detection system with visible and audible alarms within all the control buildings of all existing substations.

CEB Before the commencement of construction

CEB O&M

49


4 Handling emergencies

CEB to ensure the establishment of a SOP for H&S Plans and the development of substation specific efficient H&S Plans and emergency response plans for each SS including requirement for checking SF6 leakage, monthly testing of fire alarms, training plan, and quarterly emergency simulation drills to be undertaken with records kept. CEB to install hazard boards within each SS indicating the hazards present and emergency response procedures including details of CEB designated emergency response team, address and phone numbers of nearest doctors, hospital, fire stations etc. CEB to conduct emergency procedures awareness raising workshop for substation staff – including conducting emergency simulation drills

CEB SS Manager with support DGM H&S/ESU

Before the commencement of construction

CEB O&M

5 Yard cleaning at Substations of New Anuradhapura, Kukule Ganga PS, Matara, Bolawatta, and Galle

CEB to undertake housekeeping to remove debris/waste from the existing substation yards. CEB to develop Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) on housekeeping which should specify GSS/SS to have stores for (i) segregation of all solid and hazardous waste generated; and (ii) environmentally sound storage of all solid and hazardous materials and waste in dedicated, labelled areas within the premises of substations. If covered, impermeable 110% bunded area is not currently available on site the SOP should require to immediately store all barrels of transformer oil, other fuel, oils, and chemicals temporarily on the drip trays; ideally undercover. CEB to construct a storage area (covered, impermeable bunded surface to contain spills and leaks) in which to keep transformer oil barrels, damaged switched gear, and other debris until the removal from the substation premises.

CEB SS Manager

Before the commencement of construction

CEB O&M

6 Unsafe storage of hazardous material and poor waste handling and disposal practices Hazardous transformer oil stored haphazardly with

CEB to implement hazardous materials and waste management system/procedure at the existing substations to include the (i) segregation of all solid and hazardous waste generated; (ii) environmentally sound storage of all solid and hazardous waste in dedicated, labelled areas within the premises of substations; and (iii) request for timely collection and transport of waste from the substation to CEB stores or by reputable, legitimate, licensed contractor and keep

CEB

Immediately

CEB O&M

50


any bunding to prevent leakage to ground.

records of waste transfer.

CEB to ensure that all transformer oil, waste oil, and other hazardous liquids are kept in an appropriately designed storage area or on drip trays – an appropriately designed storage area would be one that is designed to contain 110% of the volume that could spill or leak from the contents. CEB to provide in a signed, accessible location on-site sufficient absorbent materials (e.g., sorbents, dry sand, sandbags) for soaking up oil spills

7 Transformer oil leakage, including actual leak at Matara GSS

CEB to repair the identified oil leak at Matara GSS and maintain all other transformers in order that oil does not leak, ensuring valves, nuts and bolts are tightly secured; and the rubber seals of the radiators of the transformers are regularly replaced (a source of oil leakage) For Matara GSS soak up existing spill following which a soil and groundwater investigation including PCB testing (if PCB were found in transformer) to be undertaken by suitably qualified consultant to confirm extent of any contamination across/beneath substation from oil leaks and spills and additional remedial measures required. CEB to ensure transformers are sited on impermeable concrete platform, provided with bunded area/oil pit to contain 110% of any spills or leaks

CEB Immediately CEB O&M

8 PCB presence in transformers

CEB to complete testing of PCBs in transformers at all existing substations/otherwise provide documentary evidence to ADB that they do not contain or are contaminated with PCBs. For those transformers that do contain PCBs surrounding soil and groundwater wells within about 50m to be tested for presence of PCB and any contamination found will need to be removed by CEB. Long term plan will be prepared to phase out the PCB containing or contaminated transformers with environmentally sound disposal, this will require replacement or de-chlorination of units following the UNEP guidance; priority to be given to those with >50ppm PCB oil. In the short term all transformers that are containing PCBs will be labelled, along with details of the concentration of PCB present.

CEB Complete PCB testing before the commencement of construction so contractor is aware of presence of PCB. Removal of PCB containing transformers by 31.12. 2025 with environmentally sound disposal by 31.12.2028 in accordance with Stockholm Convention.

CEB O&M

51


Prior to de-chlorination or disposal, any retired transformers containing PCBs to be stored on an impermeable concrete pad with bund sufficient to contain 110% of the liquid contents in case they are spilled or leak. The storage area must also have a roof to prevent precipitation from collecting in it. De-chlorination and disposal must only involve contractors and facilities licensed by CEA and capable of safely transporting and disposing of hazardous waste containing PCBs.

52

ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT CHECKLIST FOR EXISTING FACILITIES RELATED TO

CONSTRUCTION OF BAY EXTENSIONS (4 GSS) AND INSTALLATION OF PROTECTION PANELS (11 GSS/SS)

Guidelines Considered

New

An

ura

dh

ap

ura

Ham

ban

tota

Ku

ku

le

Gan

ga

PS

Mata

ra

New

Ch

ilaw

New

Hab

ara

na

Veyan

go

da

Am

bala

ng

od

a

Bo

law

att

a

Gall

e

Ho

ran

a

Katu

naya

ke

Kela

niy

a

Ko

tug

od

a

Pad

ukka

Oil in transformers and switchgear

• Transformers with risk PCB4 50 ? ? 50 50 50 50 50 ?

• Circuit breaker/risk PCB oil x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

• PCB warning or PCB free labeling of equipment

xNI xNI x xNI xNI x xNI xNI xNI xNI xNI xNI xNI xNI x

Use of SF6

• Gas insulated switchgear

• Gas insulated transformer ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ • Presence of SF6 in switchgear

• SF6 retrieval arrangements

• SF6 leakage records ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ

Storage of liquid fuel/oil/chemical/waste: to prevent spills, soil contamination and ground and surface water contamination

• Containment Pits, Dikes, and Berms (e.g., for transformers)5

• Storage facility x x x x x x x x x x x x x

• Drainage • Oil leakage x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

• Need for extra gravel ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ

4 It cannot be assumed that any transformers are PCB free as even in recent years Sri Lanka was importing transformers contaminated with or containing PCB oil. CEB is in

process of carrying out PCB testing of its existing transformers and results from all GSS/SS are awaited. Those where the results are known and have got PCB contamination

>50 ppm are ticked with the number 50, those with <50ppm are ticked as being a risk, and those where PCB testing is still to be done/results still to be confirmed are ticked

with a question mark. 5 Oil pits present at all substations but capacity of 110% needs to be confirmed

53

Workplace air quality and ventilation

• Monitoring of workplace air quality ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ • Good ventilation • Maintenance of ambient air environment

AC AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

AC

Workplace noise

• Noise control equipment/monitoring of noise levels

ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ Other Physical Agents

• Safe working area (absence of EMF etc.) • Regular monitoring equipment integrity

(earthing, protective shields, lockouts etc.)

Electrocution

• Strict procedure for de-energizing before working on electrical equipment

• Training of personnel for safety procedures Occupational health and safety guidelines

• Physical factors in the workplace signage • Lighting (including security lights) • Fire detection mechanism/equipment x x x • Firefighting equipment • Fire suppression system ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ ᵡ • Cleanliness (inside and outside

substation) NI

• First Aid Kit x • Features that pose safety risks (missing or

broken slabs, dogged holes, etc.) x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

• Fence or enclosure of the site (restriction of unauthorized people)

Welfare Facilities

• Safe and clean drinking water • Toilets • TV/radio/internet

54

• Guard kiosk

Hazards present in the workplace

• Noise • Vibration • Temperature • Hazardous materials • Biological agents • EMF

Personal Protective Equipment

• Eye and face x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x • Head • Hearing • Hand • Respiratory x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x • Leg and body

Training and Documentation

• Training (learning materials, equipment, and tools)

• Training on operational hazardous and how to control the hazards

• Training on health risks, hygiene, and exposure prevention

• Training on accidents and accident prevention, protective equipment, and clothing

Performance Monitoring

• OHSMS organization policy • Emergency prevention, preparedness, and

response NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI NI

• Investigation of work-related injuries, ill health, diseases, and accidents

• Safety inspection, testing and calibration Material handling (hazardous and non-hazardous materials)

• Storage x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

55

• Labelling • Handling

Solid Waste/Scraps

• Storage x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x • Handling • Disposal

Space for Expansion

• Availability of space for bay extensions x x x x • Availability of space for protection panels

=Yes/OK; x- No; 50 = Yes, transformers with >50ppm PCB oil; ?= Yes, transformers not tested/no result; AC= Yes, with air conditioners; NI= It is there, but Need Improvements; OHSMS=Occupational Health & Safety Management

Documents

Sri Lanka: Power System Reliability Strengthening Project