Mauritius tenders 220 MW of solar and storage via new ‘e-Marketplace’

Mauritius has announced a tender for 220 MW of solar capacity, along with an unspecified capacity of battery energy storage systems (BESS), to be spread across ten 10 MW projects and three 40 MW projects.

Originally launched in April, and closing in mid-July 2026, these tenders were highlighted this week at a Pacific SIDS Dialogue event held in Bali, Indonesia, thanks to their partnership with the World Bank and International Solar Alliance to launch a new ‘e-Marketplace’ for small island states to publish solar and storage tenders.

The marketplace is described by ISA as “a live, transparent, readiness-based digital platform enabling island governments to list, compare, and advance projects with access to international developers and financiers.” It promises planned renewable energy projects improved visibility among global project developers, financiers and service providers as well as assistance to ensure bankability and support with bid evaluation, procurement and other stages.

“We hope this initiative will serve as a replicable model for fellow Small Island Developing States, demonstrating that with the right platform, partnerships and policy frameworks, ambitious solar deployment is both achievable and bankable. Mauritius stands ready to share its experience with Pacific Island Countries and work alongside them as they chart their own pathways to a clean energy future,” said Mauritian Minister of Energy and Public Utilities Patrick Gervais Assirvaden.

Many SIDS are uniquely vulnerable both to the effects of climate change and to volatility in fossil fuel prices. Studies have shown that a rapid transition to renewable energy could provide returns for investors, while creating opportunities for industrial development and ensuring a more reliable and lower cost energy supply for island populations.

Despite this, SIDS have long struggled with access to finance for renewable energy and other infrastructure projects. By aggregating demand and offering expert support, ISA hopes that the marketplace will bring many more investments to solar in SIDS. “Mauritius has set a powerful example… which will bring nearly a quarter of its generation capacity from solar, offering Pacific Island Countries a clear, replicable model,” said ISA Director General Ashish Khanna.

Others in the region are already taking note: “Fiji is committed to working within this framework to prepare bankable projects, attract investment, and build the resilient, solar-powered infrastructure our communities deserve,” said Fiji’s minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services Filipe Tuisawau.