Minister Says Renewable Energy Projects Set For Completion By Next Year
Solar panels | Photo: Envato
The Maldives expects to complete a number of ongoing renewable energy projects by the end of next year as the Government works towards generating 33 percent of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2028, Climate Change, Environment and Energy Minister Ali Shareef has said.
Speaking to state media, Shareef said renewable energy projects are under way in Malé and across the atolls, with several already entering operation.
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The Government recently brought 6.5 megawatts of solar photovoltaic hybrid systems into operation across 26 islands in Raa and Baa atolls.
Work has also progressed on an 11-megawatt solar project covering Kulhudhuffushi, Eydhafushi, Hinnavaru, Thinadhoo, Fuvahmulah and Addu City. The Ministry said around 95 percent of the work has been completed, while the 1.2-megawatt solar system in Eydhafushi is already operational.
More Solar and Battery Projects Under Way
The Government is also installing 5.88 megawatts of renewable energy systems across 23 islands in Kaafu, Alif Alif, Alif Dhaalu and Vaavu atolls.
Meanwhile, the design review is under way for around 40 megawatts of battery energy storage systems across 18 islands.
A separate 14.5-megawatt hybrid energy project covering 13 islands has been awarded to a contractor, while the Government is also planning a dedicated renewable energy project for Addu City.
Shareef said discussions are also under way on larger projects as the Government works to expand renewable generation capacity.
The Ministry estimates that ongoing and planned initiatives will add a further 330 megawatts of renewable energy capacity, supporting the target of generating 33 percent of the Maldives’ electricity from renewable sources by the end of 2028.
Over the past two years, installed renewable energy capacity in the Maldives has increased from 53 megawatts to 116 megawatts, according to the Ministry.
The Government is also developing 158 megawatts of battery energy storage capacity to strengthen energy security while upgrading electricity distribution networks across the country.
