The British High Commission in Malé, in partnership with UNDP and Villa College, recently hosted GREAT Conversations on Climate Change Mitigation & Clean Energy, a two-day event designed to foster trade and investment opportunities in renewable energy between the UK and the Maldives. The event brought together experts, policymakers, and business leaders to explore sustainable solutions for the Maldives’ growing energy demands.
Promoting Renewable Energy in the Maldives
The event’s primary objective was to strengthen bilateral cooperation on climate change mitigation while positioning the UK as a key partner in the Maldives’ renewable energy transition. It highlighted the Maldives’ ambitious goal of generating 33% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2028 and reducing carbon emissions by 26% by 2030.
Panel discussions explored the Maldives’ renewable energy strategy, including key government initiatives and investment opportunities. Representatives from the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ministry of Finance, and the Maldives Monetary Authority contributed to the dialogue, outlining their roles in advancing renewable energy adoption.
Spotlight on UK Expertise
The event provided a platform for four British companies, QED Naval, Ryse Energy, Guard Global, and Green Pacific, to showcase their expertise in renewable technologies. Each company highlighted innovative solutions in tidal and wave energy, solar power, wind energy, and carbon financing.
QED Naval presented insights into Scotland’s expertise in renewable energy, particularly in tidal and wave power solutions. Ryse Energy shared its extensive experience in off-grid renewable systems, which could play a key role in electrifying remote Maldivian islands. Guard Global introduced carbon financing and renewable energy trading solutions, while Green Pacific outlined its work on solar energy initiatives in the Maldives.
These presentations aimed to inspire collaboration between British businesses and Maldivian stakeholders, offering solutions tailored to the country’s unique geography and energy needs.
Building Partnerships and Opportunities
The event’s networking sessions facilitated connections between policymakers, industry leaders, and businesses. With over 50-60 participants in attendance, including climate experts, NGOs, civil service officers, and students, the gathering provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and potential partnerships.
Notably, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Capital Market Development Authority (CMDA), illustrating the commitment to sustainable energy investments in the Maldives.
The event highlighted the Maldives’ potential as an emerging market for renewable energy solutions, offering British businesses a chance to contribute expertise in this evolving sector. The discussions reinforced the importance of international collaboration to achieve climate goals, with British businesses demonstrating readiness to engage in the Maldives’ transition towards cleaner energy.
For further information or to connect with the participating British businesses, interested parties are encouraged to contact BHC.MaleGeneral@fcdo.gov.uk.
