Ensuring both energy and food security

Montagne Longue recently hosted a half-day consultative workshop on the Central Electricity Board’s (CEB) agrivoltaic program.

The workshop aimed to advance national objectives related to energy and food security. This initiative, undertaken by the Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities in partnership with the CEB, marks a significant step towards sustainable development in Mauritius.

According to Minister Lesjongard, the agrivoltaic scheme an innovative concept allows farmers and livestock breeders to continue their primary agricultural activities while generating renewable energy.

He stated that the initiative aims to achieve two critical goals : enhancing renewable energy production and supporting agriculture, both of which are vital to Mauritius’ economy. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of ensuring bothenergy and food security and the need to increase local production.

Joe Lesjongard encourages farmers to participate in both agriculture and energy production. He noted that this approach could provide an additional source of income and attract younger generations to the sector. The program was introducedin the 2023-2024 budget, and the CEB has made substantial progress on the project through dedicated efforts under favorable conditions.