Environment Ministry on Sunday called for proposals to develop solar PV hybrid systems in Haa Alifu Atoll.
The project would see the upgrading of the existing diesel power plants to solar PV hybrid systems.
The Government aims to produce 30% of the daily peak of electricity from renewable energy sources by 2018. A number of projects are currently underway across the country under the effort. The Environment Ministry on Sunday made an announcement inviting proposals to develop photovoltaic diesel hybrid systems in 14 islands of Haa Alifu Atoll.
A “hybrid” is something that is formed by combining two kinds of components that produce the same or similar results. A photovoltaic diesel hybrid system ordinarily consists of a PV system, diesel gensets and intelligent management to ensure that the amount of solar energy fed into the system exactly matches the demand at that time.
The project would see the upgrading of the existing diesel generator systems in the island to solar PV systems. The Environment Ministry also said the project would see the upgrading of power distribution grids, and automation of the diesel power plants.
The Ministry further said, preliminary surveys have been conducted in Shaviyani, Noonu, Lhaviyani, Kaafu, Alifu Dhaalu and Vaavu atolls, prior to commencement of solar PV hybrid system projects. It said surveys would soon commence in Alifu Alifu, Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls.
Solar PV hybrid systems have been established in 14 islands so far, under the Government’s efforts to ensure 30% of the daily peak of electricity is produced from renewable energy sources.