The Maldives has opened one of its largest fully solar-powered hydroponic farming facilities, taking a major step toward boosting local food production and reducing dependence on imported vegetables.
The Vaadhoo Green Farm, located on Vaadhoo Island, is a community-led project that combines large-scale hydroponic farming with renewable energy. The farm is designed to produce vegetables throughout the year while keeping environmental impact low, a key priority for the climate-vulnerable island nation.
The project was developed through a partnership between the United Nations Development Programme, the Maldivian government, and local community groups. Officials said the initiative shows how modern farming methods can work in small island settings where land and freshwater are limited.
The facility runs entirely on clean energy, using solar-powered irrigation and cooling systems, along with rainwater harvesting. It can produce up to 600 kilograms of cucumbers and 400 kilograms of leafy vegetables per growing cycle. Monthly income from sales is expected to exceed $5,000, supporting local livelihoods and cutting food import costs.
The project has added 32.5 kilowatts of solar capacity to the island, reducing diesel use by about 32 per cent and cutting carbon emissions by up to 20 tonnes.
