JICA concludes solar panel project in Male

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has completed the Project for Clean Energy Promotion in Male’, a gratis project by the Japanese government which saw the establishment of solar panels that can generate 740 kilowatts of electricity on several government buildings in the capital.

The clean energy project, by the Japan government’s official development assistance agency, began in December 2011. During the first phase of the project, President’s Office, Hiriya School, the State Electric Company (STELCO), Social Centre and Thaajuddeen School received solar panels of ranges 20 to 130 kilowatts.

In addition, the Maldives National University campus in former Jamaaluddeen School grounds, Kalaafaanu School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ghiyasuddin International School and Velaanaage office complex received solar panels in the second phase of the project, and the Ministry of Finance and Treasury and Hulhumale’ Hospital received solar panels in the third phase of the project.

Conclusion of the project was marked at a special function today at the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, the last venue to receive solar panels under the clean energy project.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Environment and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim noted that Maldives spent close to $487 million a year - equivalent to 30 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – on the import of oil last year, and described it as a hindrance on the economy. Maldives must find ways to reduce its expenditure on unsustainable energy, the Minister said.

In his speech at the function today Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, Nobuhito Hobo noted the low-lying nature of the Maldives and thus, the need for awareness on Maldives' susceptibility to climate change. The Japanese government will provide assistance through similar projects to the Maldives, pledged the Ambassador.

A total of 12 buildings in Male’ were powered by the MVR 141.5 million clean energy promotion project.