Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, together with President José Ramos-Horta, members of the Government, and international partners, officially marked the groundbreaking of the Laleia Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Project in Manatuto Municipality, marking a significant step in Timor-Leste’s transition toward a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão welcomed the start of construction, describing the project as an important milestone for the country’s national electricity system and long-term development.
He emphasized that providing reliable electricity to all Timorese people is a key priority for the Government and essential to supporting economic growth and improving public services. The project is aligned with Timor-Leste’s Strategic Development Plan 2011–2030, which sets out the country’s long-term vision of building a prosperous nation with a strong economy and a healthy and educated population.
The Prime Minister noted that achieving these national development goals requires dependable electricity for households, schools, health centers, public institutions, and businesses across the country.
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão expressed his appreciation to the Electricity of Timor-Leste (EDTL), the Ministries of Public Works, Justice, and Finance, as well as ITOCHU, EDF, Manatuto Renewable Power (MRP), the Manatuto Municipal Administration, community leaders, and the people of Laleia for their contributions and support in advancing the project.
President José Ramos-Horta congratulated the Government on reaching the milestone, emphasizing that attracting international investment for critical infrastructure is a challenging undertaking. He said the project demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthening national development and creating the foundations for sustainable economic growth.
Minister of Public Works Samuel Marçal said the Laleia Solar PV Project has been part of Timor-Leste’s national strategic planning for several years, with all major studies completed by 2023.
Under the project contract, construction is expected to take a maximum of two years, with efforts being made to complete the project by the end of 2028.
Minister Samuel Marçal also highlighted the project’s expected economic and energy benefits, including significant fuel savings, increased government revenue, and improvements in the quality of electricity supplied across Timor-Leste.
The groundbreaking of the Laleia Solar PV Project represents an important milestone in Timor-Leste’s efforts to strengthen its energy security and advance the use of renewable energy. The project is also expected to contribute to the country’s broader goals of sustainable economic growth and long-term national development.
