Description
Project Name: Bambous
Project owner: Sarako
Standard: Verra VCS
Project ID: 1483
Bambous is the first ever solar PV project in Mauritius, operating since 2014 and supplying more than 20,000 households with green electricity. The project allows the country to reduce coal and oil’s imports, and help Mauritius to achieve its « sustainable island » plan.
Today, electricity in Mauritius is mainly generated from imported heavy fuel and coal. Energy accounts for around 20% of the country’s total importation. This situation is becoming less and less economically and environmentally viable. Mauritius is classified as a Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The project paves the way in improving Mauritius energy self-sufficiency in line with their «Maurice Ile Durable» (aiming to achieve 35% of renewable energy in their mix). To date, 26% of their mix is composed of renewable energy.
Sarako is a local independent power producer, founded in 2013. It’s the first company to build, and operate a sizable solar PV plant in the Indian ocean. Their mission is to develop the use of solar energy in Mauritius and Southern Africa. From the very beginning, Sarako decided to erect the site on a marginal land that can’t be used for agriculture and residential purposes, they valorise the land and pay a lease to the state, contributing to reinforce the country’s incomes.
Impact
86% of Mauritius’ total primary energy comes from imported fossil fuels, with significant costs.
It costs the country around €780k per year. The project helps Mauritius to limit this importation.
The plant was build through advanced technology transfer from industrialized countries.
The project was the first to introduce sizable solar PV technology, and associated skills in Mauritius.
Sarako used the local workforce to build the plant.
The project hired 300 people for the construction phase and relies on 10 permanent technicians to ensure operation and maintenance.
Mauritius « sustainable island » plan aims to achieve 35% of renewable energy in the island energy mix.
The project helps the island to reach its target by reducing the fuel consumption from electricity production.
CSR Action
Schools have been offered on-site and commented visits of the solar power plant. This action helps to promote renewable energy across the young generation of Mauritius.
Sarako sponsors social activities such as sport clubs. For example funding has been awarded for example to the local football club.
Sarako supports Bambous Regional District Council. One example of these action is the year end celebration night financial support.
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