Solar Power: Reshaping MtS in Colombo

Pursuing sustainable energy is a win for both the environment and the seafarers the Mission serves in Sri Lanka, and beyond.

The story began in late 2024, when our centre in Colombo installed rooftop solar panels. Energy costs were rising and the Mission wanted a solution that would be kinder to the planet, so Sri Lanka’s abundant sunshine made the choice an easy one.

“The solar panels were installed while Sri Lanka was in the grip of a serious economic and energy crisis, so for us, this has proved to be more than just a lifeline,” explains Fr Perry Brohier, port chaplain in Colombo.

The investment paid off. Within 12 months, electricity-related emissions had fallen by 95%, while CO₂ emissions halved from 2.2 tonnes in 2024 to 1.1 tonnes in 2025.

Human impact
Sustainability initiatives sometimes feel like they are competing with frontline spending, but Colombo tells a different story. With the centre’s electricity bill falling by 60%, money was reinvested directly into work with seafarers.

“The savings have opened up real space for seafarer welfare initiatives. Looking ahead, the option of electric vehicles has also been considered as a next step,” continues Fr Perry.

Global uptake
Ports in Panama, the UAE, Australia, Georgia and Indonesia are also going greener, using hybrid vehicles, thanks to an investment of around £123,000 from the ITF Seafarers’ Trust.

“For us, this isn’t simply about solar panels or reducing an electricity bill. It’s about finding practical ways to make sure more of the resources entrusted to us can reach the seafarers we serve,” says Revd John Attenborough, Regional Director for the Middle East and South Asia.

As Colombo has shown, going green doesn’t just benefit the planet; it also means more resources for what matters most: being there for seafarers.