Independent renewable power producer Qair and the Republic of Seychelles’ Public Utilities Corporation (PUC), have signed the first Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in the history of Seychelles. This historic signing took place on Energy Observer, the first zero-emission vessel to be self-sufficient in energy, serving as a laboratory for ecological transition and advocating for renewable energy.
Under the PPA, Qair will develop, build and operate on the lagoon of Providence a 5.8 MWp floating solar plant to supply renewable energy to the Seychelles grid. Construction is scheduled to start in Q4 2023.
Qair explained that “the signing of the PPA on Energy Observer, a vessel that showcases the potential of renewable energy, underscores Seychelles’ commitment to sustainability and its leadership in the fight against climate change. The floating solar plant to be developed by Qair is a key part of Seychelles’ energy transition and a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.”
Negotiations between Qair and PUC began in November 2019 when it won the tender for the development of a floating PV project in the Republic of Seychelles. The project is expected to contribute to the country’s energy security and also create job opportunities and boost economic growth.
“We are thrilled to be working with the Seychelles government and contribute to the Republic’s transition to a low-carbon economy,” says Olivier Gaering Indian Ocean Region Director at Qair. ”The floating solar plant is a game-changer for Seychelles, providing a reliable source of renewable energy and contributing to the country’s sustainable development. We are especially proud to sign the first Seychellois PPA for a floating solar plant on Energy Observer, our partner zero-emission vessel.”
Qair also undertook a floating solar development in Tunisia which was inaugurated in June 2022.
About the Energy Observer
Energy Observer is the name of the first hydrogen-powered, zero-emission vessel to be self-sufficient in energy, advocating and serving as a laboratory for ecological transition. Embarked on an odyssey around the world, the boat and her crew of engineers, researchers, and scientists test the latest, cutting-edge technologies in terms of hydrogen, batteries, solar and wind power, and hydroelectricity production in the most demanding and at times hostile environment known to man: the ocean.
As France’s first ambassador for the 17 sustainable development goals set by the United Nations, Energy Observer’s mission is to raise awareness amongst the widest possible audience about the challenges of ecological transition. After Seychelles, Energy Observer will continue the 6th year of its round-the-world Odyssey to discover the energy challenges of the African continent.
Qair has been an official partner of Energy Observer since 2022.