President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has assured that the administration’s policy sought to ensure no significant disruptions to electricity services in the next 50 years. He made the statement while speaking at the function to inaugurate the new power plant built on Maamendhoo in Gaafu Alifu Atoll.
Speaking at the function, President Solih recalled how previous governments had restricted the fundamental rights and freedoms of the people and failed to establish essential services and stated that his administration’s primary responsibility was to ensure those rights and freedoms and the equitable development of essential services across the country. He said the most prominent complaints raised during his first week in office were related to constant and unending power outages in the islands. He stated it was the reason for his decision to ensure the availability of uninterrupted electricity services on every island before the end of the term. He also spoke about the smart metre unveiled at the powerhouse, which he said would bring ease to service providers and customers.
Furthermore, President Solih announced new developmental projects upon consultation with the island’s council, including earmarking funds in next year’s budget for a coastal protection project and granting supervisory authority over the uninhabited island of Hulhimendhoo to the island council. He assured the administration would seek ways to include the uninhabited island under the council’s jurisdiction. He also announced plans to enhance policing services and make arrangements to expand sports fishing.
The new power plant on Maamendhoo, designed to accommodate three 600kW generator sets and an additional 800kW set, can currently generate 1,400kW of power. The old powerhouse on the island, located in the residential area, was built 22 years ago.