Sri Lanka, Sept. 28 -- The Environment Ministry has assured that renewable energy projects are being implemented only after environmental assessments are carried out, with appropriate measures taken to minimise any potential impact on the environment.

Speaking to a local media outlet, Deputy Environment Minister Anton Jayakody said the Government's drive to expand renewable energy would not come at the expense of environmental protection.

He said each project is subject to the relevant environmental feasibility assessments before implementation, with mitigation measures introduced where necessary.

Commenting on the proposed solar power project at the Ibbankatuwa Tank in Dambulla, Jayakody said solar panels would cover only around 5% of...