Ministry of Environment has revealed 10 islands in Haa Alifu Atoll have begun utilising solar energy at certain times during daylight hours.
As part of the pledge of the administration to ensure 30% of the daily peak of electricity are produced from renewable energy sources, the first photovoltaic diesel hybrid systems have been established in 14 islands in Haa Alifu Atoll. Efforts to install the systems have been completed and 10 islands are utilising solar energy for 3-4 hours per day, during daylight hours, according to the environment ministry.
Director General at Ministry of Environment Ahmed Ali revealed an immediate steep drop is seen in the expenses earmarked for generating energy from diesel, according to statistics of Fenaka Corporation Limited. He said in a short duration, the state-owned utility company has saved over USD 122,000. Noting there are several difficulties in using the energy management system during the initial stage, he forecast more hours of utilising solar energy, once the difficulties are addressed.
Furthermore, a photovoltaic diesel hybrid system has been established in Addu City as part of the project. The ministry has also earmarked establishment of photovoltaic diesel hybrid systems for 26 islands in Shaviyani Atoll and Noonu Atoll, by the end of June.