STELCO Prepares for Increased Electricity Demand in Male’ Ahead of Ramadan

The State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) has announced measures to address the anticipated increase in electricity consumption in the Malé region as Ramadan approaches.

This year, the observance coincides with the hot season and school holidays, both of which are likely to contribute to higher household energy use.

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In a recent appearance on PSM News’ “Raajje Miadhu” programme, STELCO’s General Manager, Ibrahim Nashid, outlined the measures being implemented to support the power supply. He noted that the company had ordered generators, transformers, and switchgear in the middle of last year to meet the anticipated demand for Malé. Some of the generators have already arrived, and installation work has begun in Hulhumalé, following the resolution of land-related issues.

Ramadan typically leads to a 15% to 20% increase in electricity consumption, and last year, peak demand reached 113 megawatts. This year, projections indicate an additional 15 megawatts, bringing the expected peak to nearly 130 megawatts. Nashid explained that, during Ramadan, electricity demand remains high later into the evening compared to other times of the year.

STELCO is also undertaking infrastructure upgrades to ensure long-term energy stability. The company is replacing existing transformers with higher-capacity units in Malé City to accommodate growing demand. Additionally, plans are in place to construct a 150MW power plant in Thilafushi, which will use both oil and gas to serve Malé and surrounding areas, aiming to provide a reliable energy supply.

In addition to these projects, STELCO is exploring renewable energy options. The company has launched a wave monitoring project to assess the potential for harnessing energy from ocean waves, a move towards diversifying the country’s energy sources.