Abstract:
The manufacturing sector is a major contributor to global energy consumption and greenhouse gas
emissions. In Sri Lanka, the heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels has led to increasing economic
vulnerability and environmental stress. This study explores the feasibility of converting the
Softlogic Furniture Factory into a net-zero energy facility through renewable energy integration,
energy efficiency measures, and circular economy principles. The methodology combined energy
audits, life-cycle cost analysis, return on investment (ROI) calculations, and employee surveys.
Findings show that solar photovoltaic (PV) systems provide the highest ROI (292%) with a payback
period of less than five years, while biomass boilers and LED conversions also yield strong
economic and environmental benefits. Staff surveys revealed high awareness and readiness for
sustainability transitions, though production staff expressed some skepticism compared to
management. The study concludes that a phased transition towards net-zero is feasible, replicable,
and vital for Sri Lanka’s industrial sector.
