Maldives-UAE discuss implementation major energy projects

The Maldives and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have discussed the implementation of major energy-related projects.

The discussions were held on Tuesday during a virtual meeting jointly organized by the UAE Embassy in the Maldives and the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy.

The UAE delegation was led by Chargé d’Affaires at the UAE Embassy in the Maldives, Hiba Al Junaibi, and included representatives from the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and Global South Utilities (GSU). The Maldivian delegation was headed by Minister of State for Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Mohamed Faiz, together with senior ministry officials and representatives from the State Electric Company Limited (STELCO).

According to the UAE, the discussions centered on modernizing the Maldives’ electricity grid, developing smart grid systems, introducing battery energy storage solutions, and reducing the country’s dependence on diesel-generated electricity. The parties also held extensive discussions on expanding the role of companies such as STELCO, implementing water production projects across 40 islands, developing water and sewerage networks, and increasing the use of renewable energy. Other areas discussed included establishing regional waste-to-energy facilities, developing human resources, providing training, and exchanging technical expertise.

In her opening remarks, Chargé d’Affaires Hiba Al Junaibi said the UAE recognizes the distinct challenges faced by island nations. She reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with the Maldives in the renewable energy sector.

She also highlighted the UAE’s commitments under the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the historic "UAE Consensus," which was adopted by 198 countries at the COP28 summit held in Dubai in 2023. In addition, she referred to the USD 30 billion ALTÉRRA fund established to finance climate solutions and Masdar’s goal of generating 100 gigawatts of clean energy by 2030.

Masdar is a global leader in the development and implementation of large-scale renewable energy projects.

Hiba Al Junaibi further said that relations between the UAE and the Maldives are founded on friendship, mutual respect, and shared interests. During the meeting, both sides exchanged information on ongoing and planned renewable energy projects in the Maldives and explored additional opportunities for future cooperation. Discussions also focused on the technical and financial support required to facilitate the Maldives’ transition to cleaner energy.

The UAE remains a key development partner for the Maldives, providing support across multiple sectors. Among its major investments is the Rasmalé project being developed by UAE-based Eagle Hills, which is the largest project undertaken in the Maldives to date, with an estimated investment of approximately USD 20 billion.