The Maldives has positioned India at the heart of its clean energy goals and called for enhanced regional cooperation to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and bolster climate resilience.
Speaking at the 6th International Energy Conference in New Delhi, the Maldives’ Minister of State for Tourism and Environment, Muaviyath Mohamed, highlighted that “unpredictable geopolitical shifts and supply chain vulnerabilities remind us that no country can secure its energy future alone. We need to strengthen international partnerships, and share knowledge and technology.”
For the Maldives, the energy challenge is particularly pressing. The Minister pointed out that fossil fuel imports account for 13.5% of the country’s GDP, with fuel subsidies exceeding USD 150 million annually. “As a small, low-lying island state, our vulnerabilities are clear. Our heavy dependence on imported fuel, combined with high infrastructure costs, makes the transition both urgent and complex,” the Minister explained.
To address these challenges, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has pledged that the Maldives will generate 33% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2028. Significant progress has already been made, with renewable energy capacity increasing from 53 MW to over 100 MW in just two years. Another 250 MW is planned for the near future.
India has become a crucial partner in this transition. “We are working closely with our Indian counterparts,” the Minister said. “I recently had productive discussions at the International Solar Alliance in Delhi. Indian companies have shown strong interest in our renewable energy sector, and the close proximity and connectivity between our nations make doing business with India much easier.”
The Minister encouraged more Indian companies to explore opportunities in the Maldivian market, stating, “We welcome the companies already investing in the Maldives and encourage others to join us. Together, we can align our strategies, drive innovation, and build a resilient energy future.”
With support from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and various bilateral partners, the Maldives is confident it will meet its ambitious 2028 target. The Minister stressed that the partnership with India extends beyond business interests: “In today’s uncertain world, enlightened self-interest must guide our actions. Only through collaboration can we address the interconnected challenges of energy, climate, and development.”
For India, this cooperation enhances its ambitions to become a global clean energy leader while strengthening regional relationships. For the Maldives, it offers a pathway to reduce reliance on volatile fuel imports, increase economic resilience, and ensure a sustainable future.
