Energy / Maldives
Replacing power plants with dignity
Mr. Mohamed Nimal, managing director of FENAKA, speaks with Aminath, an islander on Alifushi, about relocation benefits.
Aminath’s husband thought he would never see the day that the power plant next to their island home would close. The noxious fumes, intense heat and loud noise that plagued the family were so a part of their lives that they became an insidious heirloom, passed down generations to Aminath’s children and grandchildren, who all share the same house and misfortune.
Today, the power plant’s generators have finally ceased. As a part of FENAKA Corporation’s relocation project, Aminath’s village on Alifushi is one of the first in the Maldives to be relieved of the harmful effects of having a power plant as a neighbor. In 2015, four other power plants were moved further inland, away from coastal populations; 15 relocation projects are ongoing. The project marks a mega-overhaul in infrastructure being conducted by FENAKA to modernize the Maldives’ utilities. Overall, FENAKA plans to relocate 51 more power plants while fulfilling its commitment to provide electricity 24 hours a day.
Aminath’s husband passed away shortly before the power plant closed. But, although saddened by the death of her spouse, Aminath was rejoiceful the day FENAKA visited to close the plant, knowing well that her family would no longer suffer.
