What is the Timor-Leste solar power project?

The Project involves the construction and 25-year operation of a new power plant in Manatuto, Timor-Leste, comprising a 72 MW solar power plant co-located with a 36 MW/36 MWh battery energy storage system. This will be the country’s first full-scale renewable energy IPP project.

Why should Timor-Leste invest in solar & storage infrastructure?

José added: “The investment in Timor-Leste’s solar and storage infrastructure is transformative. It will help reduce dependence on fossil fuels while improving grid stability and energy access across the country”. José de Ponte was supported by special counsel Marnie Calli, senior associate Lisa Huynh and solicitor Jeraldine Mow.

Does Timor-Leste have access to energy?

Access to energy remains a concerning challenge for many in Timor-Leste. The centralised nature of the local electricity supply chain has traditionally kept consumers reliant on the national grid to overcome chronic energy shortages.

How long did it take to install solar panels in Timor-Leste?

Caption: It took almost a year – from feasibility to completion – to see the solar panel installed at the UN Timor-Leste compound. A powerful 300 kWp photovoltaic system is producing 400,000 kWh of clean electricity annually, filling critical gaps in energy supply.

Could Timor-Leste be a cost-efficient alternative energy solution?

The Operations Management Team started weighing the feasibility and working on a cost-efficient alternative energy solution in 2016-2017 when Timor-Leste was facing high electricity costs and increased CO2 emissions. "In Timor-Leste, our road to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development starts at home.

Can a solar energy system help Timor-Leste achieve the 2030 Agenda?

"In Timor-Leste, our road to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development starts at home. Our solar energy system can be a model for other UN Country Offices to show how we can jointly, sustainably and effectively tackle greenhouse emissions while reducing operational costs, and scale up support across the United Nations System.