Description
Project Name: Queen Victoria
Project Owner: Qair
Standard: Evident
Project ID: SOLASOLA022
As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) acutely exposed to the impacts of climate change, Mauritius is embracing a greener path with Queen Victoria solar project. By deploying state-of-the-art solar panels, this initiative slashes the island’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, which have accounted for over 80% of energy use in the past decade. Reducing coal and oil imports not only conserves precious natural resources but also saves vital foreign exchange, fueling Mauritius’ ambitious “Maurice Ile Durable” plan for a sustainable island.
Queen Victoria is a game-changer for Mauritius, delivering clean, renewable energy that powers homes, businesses, and communities while cutting greenhouse gas emissions. By harnessing the island’s abundant sunshine, the project strengthens energy security and fosters economic resilience, freeing up resources for development and growth.
As an Independent Power Producer (IPP), Qair commands an impressive 230 MW of renewable energy assets across 16 countries from wind, solar, and other green sources. In Mauritius, Qair leads the charge with 35 MW of wind and solar capacity, making it the island’s top renewable energy producer. Qair’s “multi-local” approach prioritizes local partnerships and community empowerment, ensuring that every project delivers lasting benefits tailored to the needs of Mauritian communities.
Beyond clean energy, Qair’s project creates opportunities for Mauritius. By fostering local collaboration, it supports job creation and economic growth, empowering residents to participate in the island’s green transformation. The strategic use of advanced solar technology showcases Mauritius as a beacon of renewable innovation in the Indian Ocean, inspiring other SIDS to follow suit.
Impact
86% of Mauritius’ total primary energy comes from imported fossil fuels, with significant costs.
The project limits this importation.
The plant was built through advanced technology transfer from industrialized countries.
The project is allowing more competitiveness and will eventually lead to research and development of solar PV technology on the island.
Qair used the local workforce to build the plant.
The project hired local people for the construction phase and relies on Mauritians 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
”Skills Hub Programme” a programme for empowering the youth from 18 to 32 (120 beneficiaries since 2017), and support to Primary and Secondary Schools of the region (financial support for events).
1,000 students sensitised on climate change and marine environment and its conservation
-Promoting waste segregation at source through provision of recycling bins
-Clean-up campaigns
Promotion of social integration, wellness and wellbeing among communities with the practice of sport.
Financial support to sporting clubs in the Eastern Region.
