CorexSolar Receives Go-Ahead for 1st Photovoltaic Farm

CorexSolar International has finally secured the long-anticipated Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) permit for a 10 MWAC photovoltaic farm located in Bon Air, Plaine-des-Papayes. This crucial approval, announced on Friday, 14th March, signifies a turning point in the national pursuit of 60% renewable energy by the year 2030.

Despite encountering numerous delays and controversies along the way, this ambitious solar initiative is poised to play a vital role in transforming the island’s energy framework.

The application for the EIA was submitted on 23rd March 2024, demonstrating CorexSolar’s dedication to sustainable development.

The project will feature approximately 28,000 solar panels spread over a 22-hectare area, connecting to the Central Electricity Board (CEB) network through a combination of overhead and underground lines of 22 kV, extending 5.5 kilometres.

Moreover, the incorporation of an energy storage system is set to enhance the efficiency of electricity generation.

On 14th September 2022, the CEB had previously issued a letter of intent to SPV 10MW Belle Vue 1 Ltd, facilitating the export of electricity produced back into the national grid. The farm is expected to commence operations later this year.

Greater Ventures on the Horizon

CorexSolar’s aspirations extend beyond this initial undertaking.

Two additional large-scale photovoltaic projects, each with a capacity of 30 MWAC, are currently awaiting environmental approval.

These proposed solar farms are to be established in Amaury and Mare d’Australia, with applications submitted on 21st December 2024.

The Ministry of Environment is actively conducting a thorough review of these applications.

The aim behind these projects is to reduce Mauritius’s dependence on fossil fuels, which accounted for an alarming 80.8% of electricity production in 2022.

With the island basking in abundant sunshine, the potential for solar energy development is significant.

Rigorous Regulations and Environmental Safeguards

The Bon Air project has undergone a comprehensive environmental assessment.

Among the highlighted concerns is the potential generation of solid waste during the construction phase.

To address this, CorexSolar has devised an elaborate waste management plan aimed at minimising any impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

In addition, measures for the responsible recycling or disposal of end-of-life batteries have been implemented to ensure environmental sustainability.

To further combat potential flooding during heavy rain, drainage systems will also be installed, along with plans to cultivate low-lying vegetation, such as vegetables and herbs, between the solar panels.

With the approval of the EIA permit, CorexSolar has crossed a significant milestone in advancing its projects within Mauritius.

CorexSolar: A New Era?

Nearly two years after being awarded a Rs 5 billion contract for the solar farm’s development, work has yet to commence due to complications related to land acquisition.

Consequently, the company has faced mounting delays and incurred penalties exceeding Rs 60 million imposed by the CEB.

Each day of inactivity costs CorexSolar a staggering Rs 420,000 in fines.

The contract, granted in 2023, was met with skepticism from opposition members, including the current Minister of Public Utilities and Energy, Patrick Assirvaden, who has raised concerns about its transparency.

Accusations of preferential treatment from the previous administration have placed CorexSolar in the spotlight of criticism.

Despite these ongoing challenges, the government has yet to consider terminating the contract, as CorexSolar continues to operate within the stipulated contractual framework.

Therefore, the EIA permit for this initial solar farm represents a crucial turning point for CorexSolar and offers renewed hope for a sustainable energy future in Mauritius.

Source: Defi Media