MWSC and Japanese Firm Partner to Launch Zero-Carbon Desalination Project in Kulhudhuffushi
Signing the agreement to establish a solar-powered desalination plant in Kulhudhuffushi City | Photo: MWSC
The Male’ Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) Pvt Ltd has signed an agreement with Japan’s Kanadevia Corporation to establish a solar-powered desalination plant in Kulhudhuffushi City, marking a significant step towards sustainable water supply in the Maldives.
The agreement, signed on Sunday, aims to transition the city’s water supply entirely to renewable energy. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from both companies and the Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko. MWSC was represented by its Managing Director, Abdul Matheen Mohamed, while Kanadevia Corporation was represented by General Manager Takeshi Aiba.
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Pleasure to attend the agreement signing by @MWSC_Official and #Kanadevia #カナデビア, for a zero-carbon desalination project in Kuhlduffushi, a significant milestone in 🇲🇻🇯🇵 collaboration with Japanese private initiative, 🇯🇵 #GEC funding @MOEJ_Climate and 🇲🇻@MoTmv support 👏👏 https://t.co/wHVn2FIkZ6— ISHIGAMI Rumiko, Ambassador of Japan (@JapanAmbMV) June 1, 2025
The new desalination facility is expected to generate 500 cubic metres of water per day, enough to meet the full demand of Kulhudhuffushi City. The system will be powered by a 500 kW solar power installation, supported by a 1450 kW battery storage unit to ensure uninterrupted operation and energy efficiency.
Funding for the project will be sourced from multiple parties. MWSC will cover 46 percent of the total cost through a combination of its own cash flow and green financing from the Bank of Maldives. The remaining financing will be provided jointly by the Government of Japan and Kanadevia Corporation.
MWSC stated that the project aligns with broader national efforts to reduce reliance on diesel-powered electric grids currently used to provide water services across the country. The transition to solar energy is expected to significantly cut operational costs and contribute to a more financially sustainable model for water supply.
The company also noted that similar projects could be implemented in other islands, reducing environmental impact and establishing long-term sustainable water production systems.
The desalination plant in Kulhudhuffushi is scheduled for completion in early 2026.
