This is the government’s new target for the energy mix by 2030. This follows the revision of the government’s roadmap after the Council of Ministers supported a green energy transition and at the same time, the move away from coal-fired generation. The Roadmap published in 2019 stated an ambition of 32% in 20205 and 40% in 2030.
Towards a low carbon pillar economy
During a press briefing on Monday 16 May, the Minister of Energy and Local Government explained this leap towards the green both on the economic and ecological point of view. In line with the ambitions of the 2021/2022 Budget, this transition to a low-carbon economy can only be beneficial. “It will help to get energy during the day but also in the evening… By eliminating coal at the same time, we will create a new pole of economic growth, namely green energy, to have a positive impact on the economy and stimulate our GDP,” he announced, specifying that a ‘Firm Power’ will have to substitute, hence the reason for the launch of this request for proposal for the Hybrid technology.
Energy mix projects
Hybrid hydro and photovoltaic projects are being studied. Joe Lesjongard also argued that it will be important to use available technologies at an affordable price. “In 2023, we want to popularize electricity production. According to our calculations, we will be able to reach 63.6% of renewable energy in the energy mix for 2030 with a mix of solar, wind, ocean and biomass”. According to the Minister, two private operators have already signed for two 10-megawatt solar farms and about ten public entities have signed an agreement with the CEB to produce electricity from renewable energy. “This will bring 90 megawatts of power to our grid. The High Case Scenario of the Roadmap foresees that Mauritius can reach 67.9% by 2030 in terms of energy. For the Low Case Scenario, we will reach 60% in 2030. According to the new Roadmap, we will be able to reach 63.6% renewable energy by 2030, including solar, wind, hydro-ocean, and biomass mix.” The Ministry of Agribusiness and Food Security is working on a National Biomass Framework and the report is expected to be integrated into the roadmap.
A Fast Track Desk
The Minister announced the establishment of a Fast Track Desk to speed up the process of obtaining permits. The procedures will also be reviewed. Energy production from renewable sources should become an economic pillar of the island. The Roadmap was finalized by the Mauritius Renewable Energy Agency (MARENA), the Ministry of Energy, the Central Electricity Board and the Energy Efficiency Management Office. During his speech, Minister Lesjongard mentioned the floating photovoltaic project at the Tamarind Falls reservoir, and promoted the use of electric vehicles by companies and public charging points.
