SDG 7 - Affordable & Clean Energy

Affordable & Clean Energy

Human activities, particularly fossil fuel consumption, are major contributors to climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions. Fossil fuels, still widely used worldwide, release pollutants that accelerate global warming. Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, however, offer cleaner, sustainable alternatives. By shifting to these sources, we can reduce environmental harm, conserve non-renewable resources, and lessen risks from environmental disasters such as oil spills. The United Nations has highlighted the critical importance of clean energy in its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with SDG-7 aiming for universal access to affordable and clean energy by 2030. Energy powers essential sectors like healthcare, education, and transportation, making SDG-7 foundational to achieving other sustainability goals. This goal is a driving force behind global efforts to transition towards renewable energy sources.

In Sri Lanka, the energy landscape currently depends on a combination of fossil fuels and renewable sources. The government has set ambitious targets, aiming for 70% renewable energy in electricity production by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. To support these goals, the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA) was established in 2007 to drive nationwide efforts in energy efficiency and sustainable resource management.

The University of Kelaniya aligns with these national objectives by incorporating sustainable practices and renewable energy initiatives within its all premises. As an academic institution, it not only contributes to sustainable energy use but also actively educates and engages students and faculty in research and innovation focused on clean energy. Through these efforts, the university plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development practices in line with both national targets and the global SDGs.

Electricity Usage per Year (in kWh) 

Electricity consumption (kWh).xlsx

Commitment to Renewable Energy Initiatives

The University of Kelaniya is advancing its sustainable energy agenda with remarkable initiatives that align with the global call for clean energy under SDG Goal 7. The university is focused on integrating renewable energy sources across its campuses, demonstrating a strong commitment to energy conservation and emission reduction. 

Renewable Energy Production at the University of Kelaniya 

Ratio of renewable energy production divided by total energy usage per year 

Usually, Sri Lanka receives nearly 10 hours of sunlight per day, and this calculation was used as 6 hours of average sunlight when considering rainy weather etc.


Annual renewable energy production  = (11,150.75 + 580,350 + 1,825) 

    = 593,325.75 kWh

Annual total electricity usage   = 4,539,236 kWh

The ratio of renewable energy production per year

          = (593,325.75 kWh/4,539,236 kWh)*100

= 13.07 % 

The university has successfully installed multiple solar power systems, showcasing a progressive shift towards renewable energy:


2. Harnessing Wind Energy 

The Faculty of Computing and Technology has taken steps to diversify the university's energy sources by implementing a 5 KW wind power system. This addition not only broadens the renewable energy mix but also serves as an innovative example of harnessing natural resources to achieve energy efficiency. 

3. Biogas Production 

The University of Kelaniya has embarked on an innovative biogas production initiative, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable energy and efficient waste management. With two operational biogas units, the university effectively converts kitchen waste into clean energy, contributing to both SDG 7 and broader environmental goals. 


Biogas Unit I (Faculty of Medicine)

Biogas Unit II (Base Canteen)

Energy Management Action Plan 

Energy Management Action Plan .xlsx

The University of Kelaniya's Energy Management Action Plan reflects a proactive commitment to energy conservation and climate change mitigation. Through comprehensive strategies and community engagement, the university fosters a sustainable campus environment aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. Key components include:

Per capita Carbo Footprint

0.171 metric tons per person 

Comprehensive Carbon Management and Emissions Reduction Strategy 

Campus Hostel Facilities 

The university provides on-campus accommodation to over 7,000 students, reducing the need for daily commuting and encouraging a low-carbon lifestyle. With most students walking to class, this setup significantly lowers transportation-related emissions and contributes to a greener campus environment. 

Bicycle Network Development 

The university is planning a dedicated bicycle network to promote safe and convenient cycling across campus. This initiative will include clear signage for vehicular, pedestrian, and cycling routes, creating a safer environment and supporting active, emission-free transportation options for the university community. 

Shuttle Service for Students and Staff 

A university shuttle service is available to facilitate efficient movement for students and staff, reducing the need for personal vehicle use. This service lowers overall campus traffic and contributes to emission reductions by minimizing individual car trips. 

2. Digital Transformation 

E-Learning System for a Paperless Campus 

The Learning Management System (LMS) provides a digital platform where students and instructors access textbooks, lecture notes, and other course materials online. This shift from printed materials to digital resources significantly reduces paper consumption, contributing to environmental sustainability. 

For more details: https://ekel.kln.ac.lk/login/index.php


Online Student Handbooks 

In a move towards a greener approach, the university has replaced printed student handbooks and other documents with online versions. This transition minimizes paper use and reinforces the university’s commitment to sustainability, offering an accessible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly resource for students. 

For more details:

https://science.kln.ac.lk/index.php/for-students/handbooks 

ICT Center's Sustainable Paper Reduction Initiatives 

The ICT Center leads several paper-saving initiatives, including an Electronic Document Management System (DMS) for efficient document handling, online course registrations, and paperless administrative processes. By supporting e-learning platforms and encouraging electronic communication, the ICT Center plays a pivotal role in minimizing paper use across campus. 

For more details:https://ict.kln.ac.lk/ 

Digital Laboratory Scheduling System 

To streamline laboratory reservations, the university has introduced a digital scheduling system that eliminates traditional paper-based reservation forms. This system enhances efficiency, convenience, and sustainability in laboratory management, reducing administrative paper waste. 


PeoplesHR: Digital HR Management 

The university’s digital Human Resource Management System, PeoplesHR, enables staff to handle HR-related tasks online, from leave applications to attendance tracking. This digital platform minimizes paper use in HR processes, aligning with the university’s sustainability goals while improving operational efficiency 

weblink: https://hris.kln.ac.lk/HRMV9/security/login?ReturnUrl=%2fHRMV9 

Library’s Digital Transformation

The University Library has digitized its catalog, expanded access to e-books and e-journals, and integrated online databases. These initiatives reduce the need for printed catalogs and physical copies, making research and resource access more sustainable and convenient for students and faculty. 

For more details: https://library.kln.ac.lk/ 

3. Tree Plantation Initiatives 

Mangrove Restoration for Coastal Resilience 

The university has planted over 1,200 mangrove plants in coastal areas, highlighting the critical role of mangroves in climate resilience. Mangroves sequester carbon up to ten times more effectively than terrestrial forests and provide essential protection against coastal erosion and flooding, supporting both biodiversity and local communities. 

Terrestrial Reforestation for Ecosystem Health 

On university and in surrounding areas, the university has restored more than 1,000 terrestrial plants. These plantations aid in absorbing atmospheric CO₂, enhancing soil health, and promoting biodiversity, thereby strengthening local ecosystems and helping mitigate climate change. 

Environmental Awareness and Climate Action 

Beyond planting, the university’s initiatives raise awareness among students and staff, inspiring a culture of climate action and fostering long-term commitment to ecosystem restoration. 

4. Paper Waste Reduction Initiatives 

Double-Sided Printing: All university departments are encouraged to set office printers to double-sided printing by default. This measure reduces paper use, lowers printing costs, and conserves natural resources.

Paper and Cardboard Recycling: Dedicated bins for paper and cardboard recycling have been placed in accessible locations across departments. Staff are encouraged to separate recyclable materials, supporting efficient processing.

Envelope Reuse: Envelopes are repurposed for internal mailing, reducing the need for new materials.

Digital Attendance and Inventory Systems: The university utilizes an online attendance platform for non-academic staff and a QR code system for inventorying furniture and equipment, minimizing paper-based record-keeping.

Online Ethics Applications: The Ethics and Review Committee has transitioned to online-only applications, reducing paper waste in administrative processes.

Digital Newspapers: Monthly university newspapers are now available online, promoting paperless information dissemination.

weblink: https://libnewbooks.info/newsletter-uok/ 

5. Minimizing Plastic Water Bottle Use 

Following a 2015 progress meeting, the university established guidelines to discourage the use of plastic water bottles. When plastic bottles are necessary, users must submit a recycling plan upon request for purchase approval. This policy reduces plastic waste and encourages responsible recycling practices across the university

Plastic Water Bottle Policy 

6. Introduction of Reusable Bags 

As a sustainable alternative to polythene, the Center for Sustainability Solutions has introduced reusable bags available to staff and students for Rs. 50. These bags are compact, easy to carry, and sourced from low-income communities as part of the university’s social responsibility efforts, promoting both environmental and social benefits. 

6. Energy Efficient Appliances Usage 

Optimized Air-Conditioning and Insulation Practices 

The Green Concept provides specific guidelines for the efficient use of air conditioning in lecture halls, laboratories, and other campus spaces. Recommendations for proper room insulation help maintain temperatures effectively, reducing the need for excessive energy use. 

Responsible Electricity Usage 

The university actively promotes mindful electricity use by encouraging students and staff to turn off lights and devices when not in use. This behavior shift contributes to a culture of energy consciousness and waste reduction across the university

Inverter-Type Air Conditioners 

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the University of Kelaniya exclusively installs inverter-type air conditioners, which are more energy-efficient and support the institution’s goal of a greener university environment. 

7. Smart Building Initiatives and Energy-Efficient Infrastructure 

Smart Building Implementation 

The university integrates smart building technologies in new construction projects, aiming for enhanced energy efficiency and sustainability. Approximately 32.30% of the university’s building area incorporates smart features, which allow for optimized energy use, advanced lighting control, and efficient climate management. 

Energy-Efficient Lighting and Cooling Systems 

All new buildings are equipped with a mix of energy-efficient LED lighting and natural light sources to lower electricity consumption. Additionally, these structures utilize natural cooling methods, and where air conditioning is necessary, energy-saving inverter-type units are installed to minimize the environmental impact. 

Green Roofs and Passive Cooling Techniques 

The university incorporates green covers, solar roofing, and passive cooling methods. These features reduce dependency on artificial cooling and improve the buildings' overall cooling efficiency, creating a comfortable environment with minimal energy expenditure. 

8. Building Management System 

1. CO₂ Level Monitoring and Ventilation Management

2. Smart Air Conditioning Control

3. Continuous Energy Tracking and Targeted Improvements

9. Impactful Community Programs on Climate Change 

1.Sustainability Leadership Training Program (SLTP) 

Scope: National | Participants: 20 Teachers, 100 Students


The Center for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) offers the SLTP to foster environmental leadership among university students. This program, aligned with UN SDGs, equips participants with knowledge on green concepts and sustainable practices to address climate challenges.


For more details - https://units.kln.ac.lk/css/ 

2. Workshop on Energy-Saving Strategies 

Scope: Students and University Staff


The Green Practices Committee of the Faculty of Medicine in collaboration with the Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) organized an awareness lecture on Plastic Waste Management at the Faculty premises on 3rd October 2023. The lecture was conducted by Prof. Thilini Gunasekara at the Department of Polymer Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. She is also the educational director at the Plastic and Rubber Institute. During the lecture, Prof. Gunasekara initiated a dialogue on the harmful environmental, social, and economic consequences of improper plastic waste disposal. 


For more details - https://medicine.kln.ac.lk/prog/gpc/index.php/awareness-plastic-waste-management 


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