In the pursuit of a sustainable future, Mauritius is stepping up its game in the energy sector, and new research is paving the way. A recent study, published in the journal “Energy Strategy Reviews” (translated from French), offers a comprehensive roadmap for decarbonising the island nation’s power sector, with implications that resonate far beyond its shores.
At the heart of this research is Nazeefah U. Edoo, a Chevening Scholar and a researcher at the University of Surrey in the UK, who hails from the Ministry of Financial Services and Economic Planning in Mauritius. Edoo and her team have developed a techno-economic optimisation model to explore three long-term scenarios for Mauritius’ power sector, from 2025 to 2050.
The first scenario, dubbed Scenario A, aligns with Mauritius’ current policy ambitions, aiming for 60% renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2030, as outlined in the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets. However, the study doesn’t stop there. It also delves into more ambitious pathways, with Scenario B modelling a route to net-zero emissions in the power sector by 2050, and Scenario C building on that by incorporating widespread electrification of the transport sector.
The results are promising. Replacing coal with biomass, for instance, could slash carbon emissions by nearly 50%. Moreover, a 100% renewable energy grid is within reach, with alternative liquid fuels generating around 1200 to 1500 GWh of electricity. Even in the case of net-zero emissions, the study finds that 28% of electricity could still be produced using fuel oils, provided negative emission technologies (NETs) are deployed.
But the study also highlights some challenges. The electrification of transport, for instance, significantly impacts electricity generation capacity. While the modelled system can meet a demand from electric vehicles of up to 400 GWh per year by 2050, the flexibility of choosing between technologies reduces, and more expensive generation options may need to be deployed.
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? Edoo explains, “Our study aims to support policy decisions in national electricity grid planning. It provides a robust evidence base for decision-makers, showing that a decarbonised power sector is not only achievable but also beneficial in the long run.”
The commercial implications are substantial. The shift towards renewable energy and the electrification of transport could open up new markets and opportunities for investors and businesses. It could also drive innovation in technologies like NETs and alternative liquid fuels.
Moreover, the study’s findings could inspire other small island developing states facing similar challenges. As Edoo puts it, “Mauritius can serve as a model for other countries, demonstrating that even small islands can make big strides in the fight against climate change.”
In the end, this research is more than just a study. It’s a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of innovation, and a call to action for the energy sector. As we grapple with the realities of climate change, studies like this one light the way forward, guiding us towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.