(Posted 23rd May 2024)
The inauguration of the Grenade solar farm on Saturday 18 th May, marks the beginning of a new era for Rodrigues, a small island affiliated with the Republic of Mauritius. It illustrates the island’s commitment to adopting sustainable practices and investing in a clean and reliable energy future.
The concerted efforts of the government, the CEB, and the Rodrigues Regional Assembly,
supported by international partners like the AFD, position the island as a model of energy transition for small developing islands. With initiatives like these, Rodrigues is firmly committed to sustainability and energy innovation.
Courtesy of Laura Samoisy/Photos: Rodrigues Regional Assembly
Rodrigues, located 1.5 hours by plane from Mauritius, is positioning itself as an eco-responsible
destination. The actions of the local government to make this small island in the Mascarenes a green
destination is moving in the right direction. On Saturday, May 18, 2024, a significant milestone was
reached in the field of energy transition in Rodrigues with the inauguration of a 1 MW solar farm in
Grenade. This ceremony, presided over by the Minister of Energy, the Honorable Georges Pierre
Lesjongard, and the Chief Commissioner and Commissioner of Environment, Franceau Aubret
Grandcourt, G.O.S.K., marked a decisive turning point for the island. Among the personalities present
were also the Commissioner of Agriculture, Louis Ange Perrine, the Commissioner of Sports, Varok
Ravina, the Island Chief Executive Jean Claude Pierre Louis, O.S.K., and the General Manager of the
Central Electricity Board (CEB), Rajden Chowdharry.
This innovative project, led by the Ministry of Energy in collaboration with the CEB and the Rodrigues
Regional Assembly, symbolizes a strong commitment to renewable energy and the fight against
climate change. The Grenade solar farm, with a capacity of 1 MW, represents a step forward towards
energy independence and environmental sustainability for Rodrigues.
In his speech, the Chief Commissioner highlighted the measures taken by his government to promote
energy transition. Among these measures is the Executive Council's decision to reserve four sites,
mainly located in the north of the island, for the future development of similar projects. This
initiative reflects a strategic vision to increase the share of renewable energy in the island's energy
mix.
The energy transition in Rodrigues is not limited to the construction of solar farms. An in-depth study
and a roadmap, developed with the assistance of the French Development Agency (AFD), are being
finalized. This roadmap will serve as a guide for future energy initiatives, ensuring a structured and
sustainable approach. Moreover, the organization of the Energy Forum is planned, a crucial event
that will bring together various stakeholders to discuss and facilitate energy transition projects. The
ambitious goal set by the government is to reach 50% renewable energy capacity by 2030.
The importance of the Grenade solar farm and associated initiatives is manifold. Firstly, they
contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, a major challenge in the fight against
climate change. Renewable energy sources, such as solar power, reduce dependence on fossil fuels,
thereby decreasing the island’s carbon footprint.
Secondly, these projects have positive economic impacts. They create local jobs, not only in the
construction and maintenance of installations but also in training technicians specialized in
renewable energy. Furthermore, solar energy, once the infrastructure is in place, has relatively low
operating costs, which can lead to reduced electricity costs for residents.
In terms of energy autonomy, the Grenade solar farm allows Rodrigues to move closer to self-
sufficiency. Currently dependent on the import of fossil fuels, the island could, thanks to these
projects, produce a significant portion of its electricity locally and sustainably.
Finally, the development of renewable energy strengthens the island's energy resilience. By
diversifying its energy sources, Rodrigues can better cope with fluctuations in fossil fuel prices and
risks related to their supply. This resilience is crucial for a small island like Rodrigues, often vulnerable
to climatic and economic fluctuations.
*Laura Samoisy is the editorial director and editor-in-chief of the tourist magazine Hello Rodrigues,
which highlights the beauty and cultural richness of this charming destination. Read the magazine
and download it for free on the website hellorodrigues.fr.
