Government Issues Guidelines to Conserve Fuel and Energy Amid Possible Supply Disruptions

The Commissioner General of Essential Services has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines aimed at promoting the prudent use of fuel and energy. These directives have been sent to Ministry Secretaries, Provincial and District Secretaries, as well as heads of government and statutory institutions.

The guidelines, released yesterday (22), come in response to concerns over potential disruptions to fuel imports due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

According to the circular, officials are encouraged to avoid using private vehicles for commuting and instead make use of public transportation or shared travel options whenever possible. Institutions have also been instructed to develop daily transport plans to reduce the number of vehicles used for official duties.

Several measures have been introduced to conserve electricity and energy. These include maximizing natural lighting, reducing the use of air conditioning by opting for electric fans, and limiting elevator usage by encouraging the use of stairs.

Local government authorities have been directed to switch off streetlights during unnecessary hours and to temporarily turn off lighting in low-security areas as a precaution.

The use of televisions in government offices during daytime hours has also been discouraged.

In terms of institutional operations, heads of organizations are advised to facilitate remote work where technological resources permit, instead of requiring staff to be physically present. Offices are also instructed to remain closed after official working hours and on weekends, except for essential services.

Public officials have been urged to act responsibly and lead by example during this period, while supporting national efforts toward energy conservation and security.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, speaking at an event in Colombo, appealed to the public to limit electricity usage between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.