Maldives Signs Green Energy Deal to Power 18 Islands with Solar Storage

The Maldives government has signed agreements with three Chinese companies to implement battery energy storage systems (BESS) in 18 residential islands. The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Environment on Monday, marks a significant move towards sustainable energy solutions in the country.

The project, part of the Accelerating Sustainable System Development Using Renewable Energy (ASSURE) initiative, will see the installation of energy management systems (EMS) and a 38 MW solar battery energy storage system. The work has been awarded to a joint venture between Shijiazhuang Kelin Electric Co. Ltd., Gordian Nanjing Automation Co. Ltd., and Sino Soar Hybrid (Beijing) Technology Co. Ltd.

The energy storage systems will be spread across several islands, with capacities tailored to each location. For instance, the islands of Hanimaadhoo, Milandhoo, and Velidhoo will receive energy storage capacities of 2,000 Kwh, 2,500 Kwh, and 3,000 Kwh, respectively. These systems are expected to enhance grid stability and allow for the integration of additional solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity.

The project is closely aligned with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's goal of achieving 33% renewable energy consumption by 2028. With the installation of these systems, the Maldives aims to reduce its dependence on diesel, saving about 8.4 million liters of diesel and cutting fuel costs by approximately MVR 125 million annually.

The initiative also supports the "Magey Solar" program, which encourages the installation of solar PV systems on residential roofs, further boosting the country’s renewable energy capacity. With this ambitious project, the Maldives is taking significant strides towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.