Renewable energy projects in Seychelles are set to receive a US$ 4.6m boost from the government of the People’s Republic of China, as part of an agreement which was signed on Saturday 9th Jan 2021 at the island nations State House by the Chinese ambassador to Seychelles, Guo Wei and the East African country Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change & Environment, Flavien Joubert.
Flavien Joubert said that the project will have different components that have to do with renewable energy including off-grid projects.
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“For example, we have been talking about Curieuse Island becoming independent in terms of energy. This project will enable the vision to be actualized,” elaborated the Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change & Environment, adding that another component of the project is to install solar panels on public buildings such as state schools, which will reduce their energy consumption.
The signing of the agreement coincided with the visit to Seychelles of Chinese Foreign Minister and State Councillor Wang Yi.
Chinas interest in a greener future
According to Minister Joubert, China has shown great interest in a greener future, and they are focusing more on the environment when it comes to developments and it is the same for Seychelles as the latter cannot go for rapid development because it will bring destruction to the environment.
Joubert noted that China has re-affirmed its commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and has assured that they will not be backing out of the deal.
“Their motivation is to become carbon neutral and this is one of the engagements that they are giving in order to stabilize climate around the world. As a superpower China has a duty to help encourage more countries to tackle climate change,” he concluded. 1
