Sri Lankan power grid experiences total system failure

Sri Lanka experienced a nationwide power outage on Saturday due to instability in the electricity system, with authorities working to restore electricity supplies, according to local media.

The National System Operator has asked owners of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems to disconnect them until further notice to support restoration efforts, local news outlet Newswire reported.

Energy Minister Anura Karunathilake said a breakdown at the Upper Kotmale Power Station was suspected to have caused the outage.

Authorities said power disruptions were reported in several parts of the island as efforts continued to restore supplies.