In a significant move toward a greener future, the government is preparing to commission 11 megawatts (MW) of solar PV systems across seven islands, including Kulhudhuffushi City.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the projects mark a pivotal step in the nation's strategy to increase renewable energy adoption and reduce its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels.
A primary objective is to drastically cut the dependence on diesel for electricity generation. The Ministry said that this shift will not only diminish the environmental footprint of the island nation but also bolster sustainable development and provide substantial economic benefits by reducing fuel import costs. The project is being implemented under a power purchase agreement and is currently in its final operational stages.
Complementing the solar installations, crucial infrastructure upgrades are also underway with separate Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contracts facilitating electricity network enhancements and the installation of battery energy storage systems (BESS) on the islands.
The work is concentrated in Eydhafushi (Baa Atoll), Hinnavaru (Lhaviyani Atoll), Thinadhoo City (Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll), Fuvahmulah City, and Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo in Addu atoll.
This initiative forms a key part of the Ministry's broader Aspire and Arise projects, which combine private and government investments. The ambitious overarching plan aims to deploy 43 MW of solar PV capacity coupled with 40 MWh of battery storage across 21 islands.
These efforts build upon the success of the government's "Preparing Outer Islands for Sustainable Energy Development" (POISED) programme, which has already installed solar-diesel-battery hybrid systems in over 100 islands.
The ultimate goal of these cumulative investments, according to the Ministry, is to substantially contribute to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's pledge to ensure that 33 percent of the country's electricity is generated from renewable sources by 2028.