Solar Power Leads Seychelles’ Renewable Energy Push Amid Slow Overall Progress

VICTORIA, Seychelles — In 2023, solar energy emerged as the leading source of electricity production from renewable sources in Seychelles, marking a continued shift towards sustainable energy. However, the electricity grid of the country remains overwhelmingly dependent on non-renewable sources, which accounted for 95.1 per cent of total electricity production.

Renewable energy contributed only 4.9 per cent, with solar energy playing a crucial role. Within the renewable energy sector, solar farm production led the way, making up 37 per cent of renewable energy generation, followed closely by rooftop photovoltaic production at 36.5 per cent. Wind energy, while still significant, accounted for the remaining 26.5 per cent. The share of electricity generated from renewable sources has seen a gradual rise, from 2.2 per cent in 2017 to 4.9 per cent in 2023.

Seychelles has set an ambitious goal of achieving 15 per cent of its total electricity production from renewable sources by 2030, requiring a more accelerated pace in the coming years. The Public Utilities Corporation (PUC) estimates that the current renewable energy capacity will need to be tripled within the next five years to reach the 15 per cent target. Notable projects include the 6MW solar PV initiative on Ile de Romainville and an upcoming 2.5MW PV plant on La Digue.