President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Maldives’ installed renewable energy capacity has risen from 53 megawatts to 68 megawatts, in 10 months. He made this statement during the Maldives Side Event on Renewable Energy, part of his visit to New York for the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
Emphasizing the need for collective action to combat climate change, the President remarked, “We cannot continue with business as usual.” He stressed that collaboration among governments, the private sector, and civil society is essential for making immediate and significant progress.
President Muizzu outlined the Maldives' roadmap for transitioning to renewable energy, aiming for 33% of the nation’s electricity demand to come from renewable sources by 2028. This plan includes investments in solar, wind, and waste-to-energy systems, along with enhancements in energy efficiency.
In addition, the President announced that the government aims for 35% of electricity in the fisheries sector to come from renewable sources within the next four years, capitalizing on the sector's commitment to sustainability. He noted that this transition is viewed not only as a strategy to mitigate climate change but also as a means to bolster economic resilience, particularly through ocean-based energy technologies.
The President further encouraged investments under the Special Economic Zones Act, which requires a minimum investment of $100 million. He highlighted that a project for 150 megawatts of floating solar energy for Male City is already underway under this initiative. President Muizzu called for support in securing accessible climate finance that aligns with global goals, framing the renewable energy transition as a pathway to fostering resilient economies and communities.