Veligandu Maldives Resort Island marks a defining moment in its sustainability journey with the successful completion and full operation of its Solar Energy Initiative, a major leap toward cleaner, greener island living. Following two weeks of comprehensive testing, the resort can now operate entirely on solar energy for up to eight hours a day under optimal sunny conditions, a remarkable achievement that reinforces Veligandu’s commitment to responsible tourism while delivering worldclass luxury experiences. This transition not only reduces the resort’s reliance on diesel generators but also contributes significantly to minimizing its environmental footprint. The initiative stands as a testament to how innovation and sustainability can coexist beautifully within the framework of authentic Maldivian hospitality.

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The project began in July 2024, when Veligandu explored solar energy solutions and partnered with Swimsol, an Austrian company renowned for pioneering solar technology across island nations. After months of in-depth discussions, design evaluations, and strategic planning, the team reached an agreement and moved forward with implementation. The first phase of the project, without battery storage, was completed just before Veligandu’s grand reopening on November 10, 2024. The final phase, which included the installation of a 1,668-kW battery storage system, was completed and launched on September 19, 2025, marking the full realization of the resort’s solar energy vision.

Today, the system features 3,003 solar panels capable of producing 1,441 kW of power, supported by advanced battery storage technology. Together, they enable the resort to completely power its operations using solar energy for up to eight hours per day, leading to a daily reduction of approximately 4,750 kg of CO₂ emissions. This achievement represents a significant step in the resort’s mission to tread lightly on the planet and lead by example in sustainable island operations.

“This is an incredible milestone for Veligandu and for sustainable tourism in the Maldives,” said Fathuhulla Ibrahim, General Manager of Veligandu Maldives Resort Island. “On a good-weather day, we can now power the entire island purely through solar energy, allowing our generators to rest for up to eight hours, something unimaginable just a year ago. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Owners for their vision and investment in a greener tomorrow. Their foresight has enabled us to transform our operations and reduce our carbon footprint in a meaningful way. I also wish to thank our dedicated team and partners who have worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality.”

He added, “The impact is truly transformative. For the first time in 40 years, guests visiting our back-ofhouse area can experience the generator room in complete silence, a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come. And for our guests, the experience remains seamless. Imagine spending your day snorkeling, diving, or enjoying water sports under the Maldivian sun, returning to your villa where your air conditioning, lights, and water are all powered by clean solar energy.

Without even realizing it, you are part of this sustainability journey. This is not only our achievement, it belongs to every member of our team, our partners, and our guests who share our belief in a greener tomorrow. Together, we are shaping the future of sustainable luxury tourism.”

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This strategic move marks a new chapter in eco-conscious hospitality, aligning Veligandu Maldives Resort Island with global environmental goals and reinforcing the Maldives’ position as a leader in sustainable island tourism.

“By integrating renewable energy into our daily operations, we’re not only protecting the fragile environment that makes the Maldives so unique, but also strengthening our competitive position in the luxury travel market,” said Ahmed Shaheen, Chief Commercial Leader of Crown & Champa Resorts. He added, “Today’s traveler is more environmentally aware than ever before. Our transition to clean energy reflects our understanding of this shift and our responsibility as a Resort to lead by example.”

Looking ahead, Veligandu Maldives plans to expand its renewable energy storage capacity and integrate advanced energy management systems to further enhance efficiency and stability. The resort’s longterm vision is to operate purely powered by the sun, establishing itself as a model for sustainable island operations in the region. Part of the Crown & Champa Resorts collection, Veligandu Maldives Resort Island is celebrated for its intimate island charm, turquoise lagoon, and eco-conscious approach to luxury. Reopening in November 2024 as a five-star ultra-luxury resort, Veligandu blends authentic Maldivian warmth with forward-thinking sustainability initiatives, redefining barefoot luxury for the modern traveler. With its solar-powered operations now in full swing, Veligandu continues to prove that true luxury lies not only in comfort and beauty, but also in the harmony between people, place, and planet.