Government Signs Agreement To Install Solar PV Hybrid Systems In 26 Islands

On Tuesday, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology signed a significant agreement to install solar PV hybrid systems in 26 islands of Raa and Baa atolls respectively. The initiative aligns with the Government’s Net-Zero by 2030 pledge and supports Maldives’ efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Agenda 30. At the moment, 53 Mega Watt solar PV systems are installed across the Maldives.

As part of the project, the Environment Ministry has contracted to establish 6.35 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) hybrid systems and 7.66 MW/h battery energy storage systems as well as an energy management system in 26 islands of Raa and Baa atoll. Once the project is completed, the government forecasts that it will be able to offset 7900 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions and save up on 2.9 million litres of diesel annually.  

During the agreement signing ceremony held at Hotel Jen yesterday, the contract was signed between the Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology, Aminath Shauna and the Project Manager of SINOSOAR Yingli Consortium, Xiao Xiu Ming. The contractor was awarded the project for USD 18.24 million and is tasked with developing the hybrid systems within 12 months effective from the day of signing. The project is funded with the assistance of the European Investment Bank.

With this project, it will reduce Maldives’ reliance on imported oil and decrease oil spending as well as secure clean energy generation in the Maldives. The entire project is set to help the government save up on MVR 47 million per annum by reducing fuel consumption. Under this project, 13 islands of Raa atoll will receive solar PV hybrid system installations while 12 islands of Baa will be fitted with hybrid systems while B. Goidhoo opts for an energy management system.