Context (Energy Resources)

Context

1. Current Energy Landscape

Mauritius relies heavily on imported fossil fuels, with oil and coal supplying more than 80 % of the country’s total annual energy production over the past decade. This dependence leaves the nation exposed to global price fluctuations and supply disruptions.

Despite this reliance, renewable energy is steadily growing, with bagasse (sugarcane residue), hydro, and solar power currently making up the main renewable contributions to the national energy mix.

2. Policy and Regulatory Framework

The Mauritian energy sector is governed by a comprehensive regulatory framework that facilitates the integration of renewable energy into the national grid. This strong policy environment provides the foundation for a sustainable, low-carbon energy future.

3. Key Challenges

• Import Dependence: Heavy reliance on oil and coal creates economic vulnerability.

• Land Constraints: Limited land area restricts large-scale renewable installations, encouraging innovative solutions such as floating solar panels and agri-voltaics.

• Grid Capacity: Significant investment is needed to modernize the national grid so it can manage intermittent solar and wind generation.

4. Government Initiatives

The Government of Mauritius has launched a range of initiatives to tackle these challenges:

• Solar Adoption Schemes: Incentives for residential, commercial, and industrial solar installations.

• International Partnerships: Collaboration with donors and agencies to finance projects and enable technology transfer.

• Energy Storage Strategy: Development of national energy storage capabilities to stabilise supply from intermittent sources.

5. Renewable Energy Roadmap 2035

Originally introduced in 2019 and updated in 2022, the Renewable Energy Roadmap now targets 60 % renewable electricity by 2035. The revised timeline reflects:

• Rising electricity demand from Smart Cities and new economic zones.

• Recent grid reliability issues requiring an additional 100 MW of capacity by 2026.

Key projects include:

• Biomass and bagasse-based energy.

• Floating and hybrid solar installations.

• Agri-solar schemes combining farming with solar generation.

• Wind farms and distributed generation with integrated storage.

The Mauritius Renewable Energy Agency (MARENA) will review and update this strategy every five years to guide the country’s transition to clean energy.

6. Mauritius in the Global Context

Although Mauritius contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, the country aims to be a model for small island states by:

• Demonstrating scalable, cost-effective renewable technologies.

• Sharing expertise on energy access and efficiency with other developing nations.

• Advocating for international technology transfer and climate finance to support equitable energy transitions.

By investing in solar, wind, and hydropower, expanding research and development, and participating in global climate initiatives, Mauritius can influence sustainable energy practices beyond its shores.

7. Outlook

Mauritius’ commitment to renewable energy—supported by robust policies, international cooperation, and ongoing innovation—positions the island to phase out coal by 2030 and achieve a 60 % renewable share by 2035. These actions will not only enhance national energy security but also strengthen the country’s role as a regional leader in clean, sustainable energy.

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