Minister for Cities, Local Government, and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar has announced commitments to resolving the current limitations on solar power installations in the islands of the Maldives. He made the announcement during a ceremony marking the completion of the solar street light installation in Himmafushi, Kaafu Atoll, funded by a free grant from the Chinese government.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Adam Shareef emphasised the government's priority to enhance facilities for local councils. He acknowledged the challenges faced by these councils and assured efforts to overcome these obstacles, thereby empowering the councils to meet public service demands.
Additionally, Minister Adam Shareef highlighted that new policies are being developed to reduce operational costs for councils and provide them with additional financial benefits. As part of these efforts, he said the government plans to increase the limit for solar installations on the islands. He noted that some islands have reached their current solar power capacity limits, hindering the issuance of new permits. As such, he pledged to address and resolve this issue.
Furthermore, Minister Adam Shareef expressed gratitude for the support from the Chinese government in implementing various projects at both island and national levels.
Speaking about the installation project, President of Himmafushi Island Council Hassan Faiz highlighted the project's significant financial benefits, including monthly savings of USD 5,200 to USD 6,500 on electricity bills for street lighting. He expressed satisfaction with the ability to illuminate the island without incurring additional expenses.
Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin also attended the ceremony. She said that the grant originated from China's Yunnan Province and reiterated China's ongoing commitment to assisting the Maldives in developing small island countries. She noted that the Maldives would receive further assistance following agreements made during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's visit to China, contributing to the country's environmentally friendly initiatives.
Over the next five years, the government aims to convert 33% of the Maldives' energy consumption to renewable sources. The solar street lighting project in Himmafushi, which installed 165 solar-powered street lights, is a step toward this goal. The Himmafushi Council noted that these modern solar lights enhance the appearance and functionality of the island.