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.

Is East Timor interested in solar power?

East Timor President José Ramos-Horta told The Associated Press in an interview in Dili last week that his country is interested in exploring various types of renewable energy sources, including wind, sea and especially solar power. “We have plenty of sun,” he said, adding that the cost of solar technology continues to fall.

Does East Timor have electricity?

Access to electricity is a modern development for many of East Timor’s 1.3 million people, after much of the country’s infrastructure was razed by Indonesian forces during the war for independence. Recovery was slow after East Timor gained formal independence in 2002.

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.

How much electricity does Timor-Leste use?

Timor-Leste consumes 125 GWh of electricity per annum, an average of 95 kWh per person. The country has about 270 MW of electricity capacity, 119 MW in the city of Hera. Most of the energy infrastructure was destroyed by the Indonesian militias during the 1999 East Timorese crisis.

Does Timor-Leste rely on diesel fuel?

Project's partner in DLA Piper’s Finance practice José de Ponte commented: “Timor-Leste has long relied on diesel fuel to power its grid, placing a significant financial burden on the state and end users.