Phasing out the use of coal by 2030

On Monday, June 3, 2024, in Balaclava, the first International Conference on Smart Energy Systems and Artificial Intelligence (SESAI) took place. The session focused on developing cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize the energy sector.

The University of Mauritius is organizing this three-day conference in partnership with France’s Université de Lorraine. The goal is to unite specialists from industry, academia, research, and government to share knowledge and discuss transforming the energy sector.

In his speech, Minister Lesjongard outlined the government’s vision of making Mauritius a clean, sustainable, and intelligent island. He announced specific targets, including achieving 60 % of electricity from renewable sources, phasing out coal by 2030, increasing energy efficiency by 10 %, and making the green energy industry a key part of the economy. He affirmed the goal of achieving zero net emissions by 2050.

He emphasized the ministry’s recognition of the urgent need to advance the transition to a low-carbon economy. To achieve this, numerous renewable energy initiatives and investments in advanced technologies for developing a smarter grid are being implemented, facilitating access to renewable energy technologies.