Gov’t Invites Bids To Install Solar PV Systems in 13 Islands
Photo: World Bank
Ministry of Finance is seeking bids to construct solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across 13 islands in the Maldives.
The announcement on the government gazette yesterday called for investors to participate in this renewable energy project.
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The initiative covers islands in Laamu Atoll, Lhaviyani Atoll, Shaviyani Atoll, and Gaaf Alif Atoll. Specifically, the project aims to establish 13 megawatt solar PV systems in L. Isdhoo, L. Kalaidhoo, L. Fonadhoo, L. Gan, Lh. Naifaru, G.A. Villingili, and Sh. Fonadhoo. Additionally, 2 megawatt solar panels are planned for the islands of Hithadhoo, Kunahandhoo, Maamendhoo, Maavah, and Dhanbidhoo in Laamu Atoll.
The bids should to be submitted for the Design, Build, Finance, Own, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOOT) model. The selected contractor will be responsible for the project’s capital expenditures and the operation of the PV systems for twenty years.
The deadline for bid submissions is set for 22 October 2024. The Ministry expects to select a contractor in the first quarter of 2024, following a competitive bidding process. The evaluation will consider both the technical and financial capacity of the bidders, as well as the lowest cost at which the electricity generated can be sold back to the government.
Practical work on the project is anticipated to commence in the final quarter of next year, subsequent to technical and environmental assessments.
This project, named Accelerating Renewable Energy Integration and Sustainable Energy (ARISE), is being carried out by the World Bank in partnership with the government. It aims to boost solar PV capacity, deploy energy-storing batteries, and upgrade electric grids across the Maldives. The project will install solar PVs totalling 36 megawatts and 40 megawatt-hour batteries on various islands, along with modernising the electric grids in 19 islands.
The successful implementation of the 15MW Solar PV systems is projected to save 6 million litres of diesel annually, translating to savings of up to MVR 48 million yearly.
