A new initiative to transition island communities toward cleaner and more sustainable water solutions is underway, as Male’ Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) and Japan’s Kanadevia Corporation have officially signed an agreement to build a zero-carbon solar desalination plant in Kulhudhuffushi City. This strategic collaboration aims to replace diesel-based water systems with renewable energy, offering both environmental and economic benefits to the northern city.
The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held on Sunday, which was attended by senior executives from MWSC and Kanadevia Corporation, along with Her Excellency Ishigami Rumiko, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives. MWSC Managing Director Abdul Matheen Mohamed represented the Maldivian side, while Takeshi Aiba, General Manager of Kanadevia Corporation, signed on behalf of the Japanese company.
The project will establish a desalination plant capable of producing 500 cubic metres of potable water daily, sufficient to meet the full demand of Kulhudhuffushi City. To ensure uninterrupted and environmentally friendly operations, the plant will be powered by a 500 kW solar energy system complemented by a 1,450 kW battery backup solution, designed to sustain water production during periods without direct sunlight.
Financing for the project will be a shared effort. MWSC will contribute 46 percent of the total cost using internal revenue and green financing support from the Bank of Maldives (BML). The remaining funding will be provided by the Government of Japan and Kanadevia Corporation, reflecting a model of public-private and international partnership in sustainable infrastructure development.
During his remarks at the event, Abdul Matheen Mohamed emphasized the operational and fiscal advantages of switching from diesel-based systems to solar-powered solutions. “Currently, many islands rely on diesel-powered electric grids to operate water services. This shift to solar energy is expected to reduce our operational costs and support a more financially sustainable water supply system across the country,” he noted.
He also highlighted the broader implications of the project, noting that such models can be replicated across other islands in the Maldives. “This work not only benefits Kulhudhuffushi but serves as a pilot for other utility companies across the nation. It has the potential to reduce state expenditure and contribute to long-term debt reduction,” Matheen added.
MWSC confirmed that the desalination system is scheduled for completion by early next year. Once operational, the plant will serve as a benchmark for sustainable development in the Maldivian utility sector, aligning with national goals to enhance climate resilience and reduce carbon dependency across island communities.
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