Charting a Green Future
In an exclusive interview with the Minister of Energy, he speaks about
Mauritius's ambitious objectives for the next decade, seeking to become a
pioneer in renewable energy adoption and creative water management.
The island nation is making great progress toward a sustainable and green
future by embracing new technology and global collaboration.
MARENA leads Mauritius's green energy plan, aiming to phase out coal,
cut emissions by 40%, and achieve 10% energy efficiency by 2030.The
National Biomass Framework and the introduction of various renewable
energy technologies, such as RE Hybrid Facilities, Offshore Wind,
Floating PV, Marine Renewables, and Renewable Energy from Waste,
will play pivotal roles in this transition.
The Central Electricity Board (CEB), as the sole grid operator, is crucial
to connecting these projects to the grid. With 500MW of PV Solar energy
capacity in the pipeline, Mauritius is making substantial infrastructure
investments to accommodate these renewable energy capacities. The
government has also initiated a pre-feasibility study on Offshore Wind
and is exploring the production and use of Green Hydrogen.
Recognizing water as a critical aspect of sustainable development,
Mauritius is adopting an integrated approach to water management.
Facing challenges from climate change, the nation is investing in
panoramic strategies and technologies. Initiatives include rainwater
harvesting, recycling treated wastewater, desalination plants, promoting
water-efficient appliances, and green infrastructure projects. The
government is intently reviewing legislation to streamline water resource
management, exemplified by the preparation of a Water Resources Bill.
Efforts to address Non Revenue Water through leak detection
technologies and Smart Water Meters highlight Mauritius's commitment
to efficient water use. The nation emphasizes the importance of further
innovation to conserve limited water resources, with these initiatives
playing a crucial role in ensuring water sector resilience for the future.
Despite offering some of the cheapest electricity rates, Mauritius remains
a preferred destination for energy sector investment. The nation's
commitment to good governance and membership in SADC and
COMESA provides a competitive edge. Massive infrastructural
developments, including highways, new roads, a Metro-LRT System, and
real estate expansion, contribute to the demand for energy and water. The
government is investing significantly in water storage, transmission
networks, and wastewater treatment to meet this growing demand.
Furthermore, the Hon. Minister identifies key initiatives such as a
300MW offshore wind farm, a 500MW floating solar project, and the
manufacturing of green hydrogen. These efforts not only demonstrate
Mauritius' commitment to sustainability, but they also position the island
as a global leader in the transition to renewable energy.
Mauritius, recognized for its kind and welcoming nature, is actively
seeking cooperation in the MENA region. Desalination, wastewater
treatment, sustainable water management, and knowledge exchange are
examples of collaborative activities. The same challenges of water
shortage provide opportunity for Mauritius and MENA nations to build
bilateral collaborations to foster expertise and reforms in the water
industry.
