The Ministry of Finance and Planning of Maldives has announced a tender for a new solar power project with a capacity between 100 megawatts (MW) and 150 MW. The project will be located in the Greater Malé region and will include a battery energy storage system to support stable power distribution.
This solar power project will be developed under a design, build, finance, own, operate, and transfer (DBFOOT) model. This approach means that the selected developer will be responsible for every stage of the project, from design and construction to financing and operation. After an agreed period, the project will be transferred to the Maldivian government. The inclusion of battery storage is aimed at managing energy supply fluctuations, especially since solar energy generation can vary depending on weather conditions.
Maldives has been steadily expanding its renewable energy capacity in recent years. As of now, the country has installed around 33 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across different islands. Some of the major projects include the 5 MW solar PV system in Hulhumalé, which supports the Greater Malé grid. Additionally, the 2.5 MW solar project in Thinadhoo provides renewable energy to nearby islands in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
In outer islands, hybrid renewable systems combining solar PV with diesel generators are in place to reduce fuel dependence. For example, the Laamu Atoll operates with a solar-diesel hybrid system that supplies electricity to several local communities.
The Maldives is also exploring other renewable energy sources. Pilot projects are testing the potential of ocean-based energy, including wave and tidal power. In addition, some resorts have installed rooftop solar panels to reduce their reliance on diesel fuel, with capacities ranging from 100 kilowatts (kW) to over 500 kW depending on the resort size.
