President Nasheed has called for improvements in energy efficiency and investments in renewable energy, in order to reduce electricity bills and reduce the Maldives’ dependence on foreign oil.
The President said the government wants to implement new building regulations, to ensure that new buildings are energy efficient.
He also noted the government’s desire to shift to renewable energies such as solar power.
The President made the remarks during a speech at Soneva Fushi resort in Baa atoll.
The resort, which is part of the Six Senses company, is hosting an “eco-symposium” this weekend, to explore how the travel and tourism industry can reduce its carbon emissions while saving money on electricity costs.
“We have to get away from thinking that development has to cause carbon dioxide emissions,” the President said.
“In the Maldives, we want to pursue a low carbon development strategy… so we can develop, create a better life for people and also take care of this planet,” he added.
The Maldives has one of the world’s highest electricity prices and, according to a 2007 United Nations report, is the most oil-vulnerable country in Asia.
On Thursday, President Nasheed installed a solar energy system on his official residence, Muleeaage, to highlight the government’s determination to shift from costly, imported oil to renewable energy.
