The development of the Seychelles’ first major renewable energy project will enhance the environmental credentials of the island nation’s tourism industry, according to Masdar.
The Abu Dhabi-based green-tech investment firm has laid the foundation stone for a 6 MW wind farm in the country, which wants to improve its energy security to help underpin economic growth.
The development will account for 11 per cent of the Seychelles’ installed capacity and will cut down on fossil fuel imports as well as greenhouse gas emissions. It is backed by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD).
“For the Seychelles, electricity generated from wind is a material first step towards diversifying the Seychelles electricity supply system and in the process help mitigate risks associated with energy supply and climate change,” said Joel Morgan, Seychelles energy minister. “The project represents a milestone in our endeavor to achieve a sustainable level of energy independence.”
Masdar has awarded Unison Co., a South Korean wind energy firm the contract to build the wind farm, which will consist of five wind turbines on Romainville Island and three on Ile du Port. Masdar will project manage the wind farm on behalf of ADFD and the government of the Seychelles.
“Although Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has been active in the Seychelles for over three decades, this project is a very special one as it will help in achieving the millennium goals of ensuring environmental sustainability by utilising the renewable wind energy to meet the vital demand for electricity,” said Mr. Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Acting Director General of ADFD.
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