The state-owned Central Electricity Board of Mauritius has issued a tender for consultants to support the development of four 10 MW solar-plus-storage facilities
Applying for the Solar Projects
The Central Electricity Board (CEB) of Mauritius is seeking consultants for a project to establish four 10 MW hybrid renewable energy facilities. These facilities will combine solar power with battery energy storage systems. This initiative aims to bolster the country's renewable energy infrastructure.
The selected consultants will act as independent engineers for the project. The consultants' role will also include providing expertise in project planning, design, and implementation to ensure the successful integration of solar energy systems with storage capabilities.
Both international and Mauritius-based companies are invited to apply for this opportunity to contribute to the island nation's renewable energy infrastructure. Interested parties can download the full tender details from the CEB’s official website. The tender documents outline the scope of work, evaluation criteria, and submission guidelines.
Applicants must submit their proposals by post, ensuring all required documents are included and formatted as specified. The deadline for submission is July 10.
Mauritius' Ambitious Roadmap Towards Renewable Energy Independence
Mauritius is steadfast in its commitment to reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels by significantly increasing the share of renewable energy in its electricity generation. The nation has set ambitious targets, aiming for 40% of its electricity mix to come from renewable sources by 2025 and raising this goal to 60% by 2030. Over recent years, Mauritius has made notable strides in commissioning over 100 MW of wind and solar capacity.
Looking ahead, the government has outlined plans to bolster its renewable energy infrastructure further. By 2025, Mauritius aims to add 253 MW of capacity through facility-scale renewable energy projects and an additional 269 MW through scheme-based initiatives.
The comprehensive 2030 energy transition roadmap underscores an estimated investment of USD 1.35 billion in various renewable energy sectors, including solar, wind, biomass, hybrid systems, and marine renewables. Currently, the country's renewable energy project pipeline stands at approximately USD 700 million, with several projects at different stages of implementation set for commissioning before the end of 2024.
To achieve these ambitious targets, Mauritius intends to leverage a tender-based approach for facility-scale renewable projects while also fostering an environment conducive to individual and business-led renewable energy generation. This dual strategy aims to diversify the energy mix, enhance energy security, and promote sustainable development across the island nation.
Incentives Boost Solar Projects in Mauritius
Mauritius has rolled out a comprehensive set of incentives to spur investment in solar energy projects across the island nation. Individuals keen on investing in solar generation can now benefit from income tax deductions under the Solar Energy Investment Allowance scheme. This initiative allows for significant deductions on capital expenditures related to solar energy units and green technology equipment.
Moreover, the Development Bank of Mauritius offers concessional loans of up to MUR 250,000 at a minimal interest rate of 2% for purchasing solar PV kits. For industrial users, the Industrial Finance Corporation of Mauritius (IFCM) provides enticing options such as the Carbon Neutral Load Scheme, offering loans over 7 years at a preferential rate of 3%. Additionally, companies transitioning to electric mobility can avail themselves of concessionary leasing facilities at 3.5% per annum through the IFCM.
To further encourage renewable energy adoption, Mauritius exempts solar PV equipment from customs duty and VAT. The government also provides a buy-back guarantee for prosumers and industrial users who produce surplus electricity, thereby allowing them to sell up to 150% of their current consumption back to the grid at a guaranteed rate.
Furthermore, renewable energy projects undertaken on agricultural land benefit from exemptions from land conversion taxes. This aims to streamline the implementation of solar initiatives both on-site and off-site.
These measures underscore Mauritius’ commitment to fostering a sustainable energy landscape and attracting substantial investments in solar technology. The incentives aim not only to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy but also to bolster economic growth through innovative and environmentally friendly projects.