With the inauguration of 6.4-megawatt solar photovoltaic hybrid power systems across 25 islands in the Baa and Raa Atolls, the Maldives has successfully increased total renewable energy production capacity to 116 megawatts, according to Ali Shareef, the Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy. The initiative was executed through a partnership of the government, the Asian Development Bank, and the European Investment Bank. Minister Shareef observed that completing the project strictly on schedule marks a significant milestone.
Reliance on diesel generators to supply electricity to residential islands and luxury resorts imposes exorbitant costs on the state, the minister noted. Currently, the country expends approximately 13 per cent of its gross domestic product on oil imports, making fossil fuel reduction a critical priority. Capitalising on year-round sunlight, the transition to solar power will curtail energy expenditures, freeing capital for national development, Minister Shareef explained.
Tracing recent advancements, the minister highlighted that capacity stood at 53 megawatts when efforts began. "When we commenced, the figure stood at 53; we have now advanced by 100 per cent," Minister Shareef stated. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu established a demanding objective to curb oil expenditures, acknowledging that addressing such financial magnitude remains challenging. The new systems will generate annual savings of USD 4.41 million, while the administration maintains its objective of transitioning 33 per cent of electricity to renewable sources by the conclusion of 2028.