State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) has completed the construction of a new power plant in Felidhoo, Vaavu Atoll, after 30 years.
Managing Director of STELCO Hussain Fahmy officially inaugurated the state-of-the-art power plant on February 1. During the inauguration ceremony, he highlighted key features of the new facility, emphasising its modern design aimed at minimising engine noise. He said that the plant also incorporates a fire extinguishing system, employee accommodation, and a dedicated hall for staff training. He also said that a customer service building has been established to provide seamless services to the residents.
The Felidhoo Island Council expressed relief at the discontinuation of the old power plant's generators, which had been causing inconvenience to residents due to their loud noise and smoke. The new power plant is expected to address these concerns and contribute to a more comfortable living environment.
Originally commissioned on January 31, 1994, the old power station in Felidhoo served as a public power station with a 25 kW generator supplying electricity to the island. Over the years, STELCO took over the management of the Felidhoo power plant in 2014 and has since worked to expand services based on the growing demand for electricity on the island.
With the addition of new generators, including capacities of 304 kW, 250 kW, and 500 kW, the overall capacity of the island's power infrastructure has been significantly increased to 1,054 kW, reflecting the company's commitment to meeting the evolving energy needs of the community.