Project Dates

Start: 2014

The Story

Swimsol is transforming the power production on tropical islands. Places like the Maldives enjoy nearly 300 days of sunshine each year, but this abundant resource remains underused. Most of the energy still comes from costly and environmentally harmful diesel generators. The Austrian company Swimsol has the mission to replace diesel energy with solar energy systems and batteries suited for the tropical climate. One additional problem on islands is the lack of abundant land space, which is usually needed for the installation of large solar systems. To overcome this challenge, Swimsol also developed the world’s first marine floating solar system, designed to be placed directly on the sea and deliver any required amount of clean and affordable electricity. The system is built to withstand waves and harsh marine conditions for at least 30 years. It is easy to assemble on site and cost-competitive with diesel power. Today, Swimsol is the largest solar provider in the Maldives, with PV systems operating on more than 50 islands and a total installed solar capacity of over 40 MWp, with a furhter 20 MWp in the pipeline. These systems cut more than 40,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually — helping to mitigate climate change, and also improving the local air quality by eliminating exhaust fumes. Most customers are large island resorts that can reduce almost their entire diesel consumption while showcasing leadership in sustainable tourism and renewable energy innovation.

Success Factor | Hero Moment

Swimsol’s success is built on dedicated engineering and the expertise of a committed international team. Their focus on quality and reliability ensures that each project is executed with precision and supported over the long term. The floating solar systems are designed for straightforward assembly and smooth operation, minimizing disruption while maximizing dependable performance. With this combination of innovation, skilled people, and attention to detail, Swimsol delivers clean, affordable energy that creates lasting value for both customers and the environment.