Minister of Environment, Dr Hussain Rasheed Hassan has stated that generating electricity from solar power is 140% cheaper than generating electricity using diesel.

While speaking at a special ceremony held at Hotel Jen on Thursday morning to launch the use of solar photovoltaic diesel hybrid systems in 48 islands around the country, the minister stated that the country's use of energy has been rising over the years and has subsequently had a negative impact on the economy.

While stressing the importance of reducing our dependence on diesel fuel, the minister claimed that, even on subsidies, one kilo-volt of renewable energy costs approximately MVR3.70.

Noting that solar power is the best source of renewable energy for the Maldives, he emphasized that electricity generated from solar power is 140% cheaper than electricity generated using diesel.

The project titled "Preparing Outer Islands for Sustainable Energy Development" (POISED) is a collaborative project between the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Ministry of Environment.

During the ceremony, the minister presented the representatives from ADB with a commemorative plaque.

The hybrid systems have been installed in 14 islands of Haa Alif atoll, 13 islands of Shaviyani and Noonu atoll as well as Addu City, Gaafu Alif atoll. Villingili, Thaa atoll Buruni, Lhaviyani atoll Buruni and Baa atoll Goidhoo.

As such, the instalment of an additional 25MW hybrid power systems for the islands of Haa Dhaal, Raa, Baa, Lhaviyani, Kaafu, Alif Alif, Alif Dhaal, Vaavu, Meemu, Faafu, Dhaalu, Thaa, Gaaf Alif, Gaafu Dhaal and Seenu atoll is set for the year 2021.

According to the ministry, this project is a step forward in achieving the goals for renewable energy outlined in the current administration Strategic Action Plan (SAP).

In addition to the minister and representatives of ADB, Managing Director of Fenaka Corporation Limited, Ahmed Saeed Mohamed and Minister of National Planning and Infrastructure, Mohamed Aslam.