In a bid to address its escalating energy needs and advance its green transition goals, Mauritius has formally reached out to India for technical collaboration and support in the energy sector, with a strong focus on renewable energy. Sources within Mauritius’ Ministry of Energy confirmed that a team of Indian energy experts is scheduled to visit the island nation in May to support energy planning and regulatory development.
The upcoming expert mission is part of a broader initiative following the submission of multiple proposals from Mauritius to India. Zeenat Guness-Gooljar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, described the visit as the “first concrete step” following recent bilateral discussions.
“This is already one soon-to-materialize action following our proposals,” Guness-Gooljar said. “Mauritius is facing challenges in energy security, with electricity demand reaching record highs. We need support in generation planning, and also in areas like transmission, distribution, and battery storage.”
As of February 2025, the country experienced its highest ever peak electricity demand, recorded at 567.9 megawatts (MW). In response to such challenges, Mauritius is aiming to strengthen its energy systems and infrastructure, while also aligning with its broader sustainability agenda.
India’s assistance has been sought in a number of areas, including technical and financial support, capacity building, and renewable energy deployment. According to officials, around 10-15 detailed proposals were sent through the Mauritian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the Indian High Commission.
One of the key proposals includes piloting a small-scale renewable energy project at a local reservoir, which could later be expanded. Guness-Gooljar noted that large utility-scale renewable projects have faced delays in approval, prompting the need for a staged implementation strategy.
Mauritius has set an ambitious goal of generating 60% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. As part of this national strategy, the country is also exploring the adoption of green hydrogen and diversifying its energy mix.
The Mauritian government has expressed particular interest in India’s experience with offshore hydrogen production and related maritime infrastructure. “This is a very technical area where Indian expertise can really assist us, especially in conceptual design and eventual deployment in the Indian Ocean,” said Guness-Gooljar.
India’s role in supporting Mauritius’ renewable energy transition has been well-established over the years. A key milestone was the completion of the 8 MW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) farm at Henrietta in November 2023, executed by Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) under India’s line of credit. The project is projected to cut approximately 13,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually.
As both countries continue to strengthen bilateral ties, energy cooperation is emerging as a central pillar, with the upcoming visit by Indian experts expected to lay the groundwork for deeper collaboration and sustainable development.
