New Addu power project announced amid ongoing upgrades

President Mohamed Muizzu has announced a new project to address Addu’s electricity supply challenges.

The announcement was made during the President’s current visit to Addu. A similar electricity project had been introduced earlier on 18 April 2024, just before the parliamentary elections.

According to the government, the ongoing power system upgrade in Addu includes the establishment of a new 32-megawatt power plant in Hithadhoo and an upgraded distribution network. The project, costing USD 59 million, will be financed through Fenaka Corporation, which has a 12-year repayment period.

President Muizzu said the issue of electricity supply in Addu could not be resolved through temporary or minor measures. He noted that despite the installation of eight generator sets so far, a lasting solution had not been achieved.

He added that a permanent and environmentally sound approach was required, as electricity demand in Addu is expected to rise.

“Therefore, the government has decided to establish 30 megawatts of electricity capacity. A major project has been planned for this,” the President said.

He added that administrative and technical preparations for the project are underway and that work will be handed over soon. “We are working to upgrade the generators and power house and improve the existing setup,” he said.

It remains unclear whether the newly announced project is a continuation of last year’s plan or an entirely new initiative.