Show Form

News search

News Menu:

Sign up to our Engage eNewsletter

Chartered Engineer (CEng)

EUR ING Romesh Nirman Amerasingha BSc (Hons) MSc CEng MIET MSOE MIPlantE

Published: 03/10/2024

Education and qualifications:
BSc (Hons) Electrical Engineering, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
MSc/PG Dip Electrical Installation, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

Job title:
Senior Electrical Engineer

Employer:
Ceylon Electricity Board

 

 

 

 

What/who inspired you to become an engineer?
A lifelong passion for problem-solving sparked my journey to becoming an engineer.  Even as a child, I was captivated by the challenge of untangling complex puzzles and immersed myself in the world of mathematics. This fascination with understanding how things work led me to appreciate the art of engineering. The desire to contribute to technological advancements and improve infrastructure fuelled my ambition to pursue a career where I could turn my passion into tangible, impactful solutions.

Please describe your role within the workplace.
In my role, I oversee both routine and breakdown electrical maintenance activities, and the construction of new electrical systems. Ensuring compliance with safety standards is a top priority. I lead a dedicated team, manage projects and implement strategies to enhance the reliability and efficiency of power generation. My focus is on maintaining high standards and driving continuous improvement in the electrical maintenance section.

What is the most challenging aspect of your role?
The most challenging aspect of my role involves managing and maintaining the electrical systems of the power plant, ensuring minimal downtime while swiftly addressing unexpected emergencies. Additionally, maintaining an adequate inventory of spare parts is vital to enhance the plant's reliability and overall operational efficiency. This comprehensive approach ensures seamless operation and continuous running with improved plant performance.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your role?
The most rewarding aspect of my role is successfully troubleshooting complex electrical issues, leading to improved plant performance. Witnessing the tangible impact of my work on the country's power supply is particularly gratifying, as this plant contributes nearly 30-40% to the national demand. Moreover, managing my team towards achieving our targets is deeply fulfilling, further highlighting the importance of our efforts in meeting the nation’s energy needs.

What is the biggest career highlight or achievement you’re most proud of?
One of my proudest career achievements was leading a critical repair project on a faulty 220kV inter-bus gas-insulated switchgear with my team. We worked intensively,  late into the night, and meticulously adhered to technical specifications and manuals, to meet tight deadlines. This project was crucial because the switchgear serves as an interconnected hub for the national grid, supplying 40% of the country’s energy demand.  Following the repair, we implemented a maintenance programme based on modern condition monitoring techniques, such as acoustic and thermographic imaging. This approach significantly, reduced equipment failures minimised unscheduled maintenance, and resulted in substantial cost savings for the company.

Why did you choose to become professionally registered?
Although I was accredited as a Chartered Engineer (CEng) by the Sri Lankan Engineering Council in 2019, obtaining certification from an international body feels like a significant professional milestone with deep personal meaning. It validates that I possess the skills and knowledge required to hold the title. Additionally, this registration opens a wide range of opportunities and doors that every professional engineer should aspire to acquire.

I would recommend professional registration because…
….it offers international recognition of my skills and expertise, greatly enhancing my confidence and career opportunities. The CEng credential ensures compliance with industry standards and facilitates connections within a network of professionals. Most importantly, it motivates me to strive for excellence and pursue ongoing professional development, fostering my growth in the field.

What career advice would you give to your younger self?
Acquire a solid educational foundation, embrace challenges and learn from every experience. Stay curious, continuously update your knowledge and develop strong communication and leadership skills. These will complement your technical expertise and pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career.

Do you participate in mentoring, volunteering, or membership of other engineering groups?
Yes, I actively mentor junior engineers and participate in industry forums. I am involved in professional organisations such as the Institute of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL) and the Sri Lankan Engineers Council. I also serve as an International Professional Registration Advisor (IPRA) for the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), UK, guiding engineers toward professional registration. Additionally, I am enrolled with the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) in the UK and the European Engineers Forum.

If relevant, please list three favourite projects you have worked on.

  • The transformation of street lighting infrastructure into an eco-friendly model with renewable energy integration.
  • Augmentation of 132/33kV grid substations and enhancing network infrastructure to reduce transmission line losses and improve system efficiency.
  • Conduct the feasibility study and preliminary design for the 300MW extension project of a new coal-fired power plant.

Tags: