President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said the Government aims to double the country’s renewable energy capacity to 220 megawatts (MW), describing the target as a major step towards transforming the national energy sector.
The President made the remarks in his Presidential Statement at the opening of this year’s session of the Parliament. He said the 220MW target represents 50 per cent of the capacity required to achieve the Government’s goal of meeting 33 per cent of national energy needs through renewable sources.
President Muizzu said a range of renewable energy projects will be implemented across Malé and islands nationwide to reach the target. He highlighted that fuel imports remain one of the country’s largest expenditures, noting that diesel imports alone amount to USD 443.6 million, with the majority used for electricity generation.
He said that when the current administration took office, electricity generated from renewable sources accounted for just four per cent of total production, or 53MW. Through efforts over the past two years, he said this figure has increased to 110MW.
“These projects will reduce dependence on imported oil for essential services and help retain foreign exchange,” the President said, adding that the shift towards renewable energy is also critical for environmental protection and long-term economic sustainability.