In a major step toward sustainable hospitality and carbon reduction, Finolhu Seaside – in the Maldives – has successfully implemented a 1,185 kWp rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system.
This milestone project reinforces the resort’s commitment to eco-conscious luxury hospitality and supports the Maldives’ national goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.
Installed across several rooftops in the staff area of the island resort, the solar system will significantly reduce the diesel usage of the generators.
By producing approximately 1.6 million kWh of clean electricity annually, the new system is expected to cut diesel consumption by approximately 450,000 litres per year, translating into a reduction of over 1,100 tons of CO₂ emissions annually. In the near future it is also planned to add a battery system in order to further increase the solar system output and reduce generator operation.
“We are proud to take a leadership role in the transition to renewable energy in the Maldives,” said Steven Philipps, General Manager of Finolhu Seaside.
The rooftop solar installation was carried out by Swimsol, the leading solar energy supplier in Maldives. Following a detailed design phase, Swimsol mounted 2,418 heavy-duty high-efficiency solar panels on the resorts staff area roofs. The project was implemented in close cooperation with the resort team and caused no interruptions to the resort´s operations. “We are very happy to have completed this landmark project at Finolhu Seaside, which is one of our largest rooftop solar installations in the Maldives. We thank the resort team for the smooth implementation” said Daniel Reinhardt, Head of Sales and Project Development.
The project is part of Finolhu’s broader sustainability strategy that includes its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable luxury, setting new benchmarks in responsible travel within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The resort operates with a strong “No Plastic” policy, producing its own drinking water on-site and eliminating single-use plastics while offering refillable amenities to minimise waste.
Finolhu partners with Parley for the Oceans on species protection and runs an innovative Coral Reef Propagation Project that invites guests to contribute to reef regeneration and biodiversity conservation. In addition, the resort’s proactive marine conservation initiatives have led collaborative coral restoration efforts with neighbouring resorts—transplanting over 1,200 coral colonies to strengthen vital reef ecosystems—and the property holds the prestigious Travelife Gold Certification in recognition of its holistic environmental, social and community engagement practices.
