Administration’s policy is to reduce electricity costs - President

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has affirmed the Administration’s commitment to reduce electricity costs. President Solih made the remarks, speaking at the function held to celebrate the 70th anniversary of State Electric Company Limited (STELCO). The reception was held tonight at Dharubaaruge.

Highlighting that electricity costs could not be reduced without the combined efforts of the Administration and the public, President Solih urged the public to exercise their share of the responsibilities by reducing energy consumption and wastage. He then called on the public to heed the advice of STELCO on energy efficiency.

Furthermore, President Solih noted that the Administration had successfully harmonised electricity tariffs across the country, eliminating decades-old disparities between Malé and the outer atolls. He further stated that the Administration accords high priority to protecting the environment.

Speaking in this regard, President Solih stressed the Administration’s efforts to lower the country’s dependency on fossil fuels and increase the application of renewable energy sources. He then went on to highlight the progress of the efforts to install solar hybrid PV systems across the country.

Describing STELCO’s five-year plan to provide photovoltaic solutions across the country as an ambitious move, the President said that the efforts would exponentially increase the percentage of renewable energy in the national grid. He further emphasised the economic benefits of reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Speaking about STELCO’s ‘Green Life Initiative,’ which he inaugurated tonight, President Solih stressed on the scourge of plastic pollution on the Maldives’ fragile ecosystem. He further urged everyone to do their part in the fight against plastic pollution, especially against single-use plastics.

At the function, President Solih launched a special book by STELCO on the history of electricity services in the Maldives and presented awards to individuals who had served in the electrical sector for over 35 years. Special recognition awards were also presented to individuals who had made remarkable achievements in the service to the industry.