Established in 2004, APSL is an association open to all Sri Lankans in the UK, irrespective of their ethnicity, creed or political affiliation. Our aim is to promote unity and professionalism among the Sri Lankans, foster good will and cultural relations in the UK, as well as support relief and development activities in Sri Lanka.
The Solar Village project, developed by Professor I. M. Dharmadasa of Sheffield Hallam University, was created to empower rural communities through clean energy technologies. A pilot project was launched in Sri Lanka in 2008, focusing on sustainable development and poverty alleviation. Under Professor Dharmadasa's guidance, the project aimed to help rural communities thrive by utilizing renewable energy sources.
In collaboration with the UK charity Hela Sarana, APSL established its first solar village in Nochchiya, Kurunegala district. A 6kW solar roof was installed feeding energy into the national grid. The revenue generated from the system covers operational costs for water pumping stations, ensuring a consistent supply of clean water for the village's 1,200 residents. This initiative significantly reduces waterborne diseases and supports a healthier community.
Mediyawa is a is a small village consisting located Ambanpola AGA Division in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. With the support of our donors as well as funds raised from an online raffle, a 5kw solar panel system on the roof of the local village hall was installed to support 400 families in this village. This project was completed in December 2024.
As part ofthe APSL 'We Sri Lanka' programme, a second solar village was established in Puthiya Nagar, Mullaitivu in 2020. Resettled with refugees from conflictaffected areas in the Vanni region, Puthiya Nagar received a fully funded 5kW solar energy system that was installed at the village Community Centre at a cost of Rs 1.4 million. The renewable power generated illuminates the Community Centre that houses a Library and a Pre-School, as well as provides education and training facilities for children and women in surrounding areas.
The Health and Medical Assistance Fund provides crucial healthcare services, including emergency medical care, surgeries, and long-term treatment for the underserved communities.