Solar-powered ferry is set to revolutionize public transportation in the Maldives, part of a pilot project launched by the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy. The initiative aims to introduce cleaner, more sustainable transportation options in line with the country's renewable energy goals.
At a press conference held yesterday at the President’s Office, Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim confirmed that the solar ferry is expected to arrive in the Maldives before the end of the year. “We look forward to inviting you to witness this milestone event,” Thoriq remarked.
Key Renewable Energy Projects Underway:
The solar ferry is just one of several ambitious initiatives led by the Ministry to promote renewable energy. Other pilot projects include:
- Solar-powered ice plants: Set for installation on four islands, with construction already beginning on two.
- 100 kW wind turbine installations: These will be deployed across selected islands.
- Electricity from ocean currents: A project to generate 25 kW of electricity from oceanic flow.
- Solar irrigation systems: To support agriculture, solar irrigation systems will be installed on four islands.
National Commitment to Renewable Energy
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that 33 percent of the Maldives’ energy generation comes from renewable sources by 2028. This ambitious target is aimed at reducing the nation’s dependency on imported fuel and transitioning to a more sustainable energy model.
When the current administration took office, renewable energy made up just four percent of the total energy consumed, with a capacity of only 53 MW, according to the Environment Ministry. The government’s new energy policy lays out an aggressive plan for the next five years, focusing on boosting renewable energy capacity and supporting green infrastructure.
As these projects unfold, they represent a critical step in the Maldives' efforts to become a regional leader in sustainability, setting an example for climate-vulnerable nations.
