In a decisive step toward strengthening decentralization, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that from January 1, 2026, all city and island councils across the Maldives will be billed at the domestic electricity rate for powering streetlights and other public spaces.
The policy shift, which will be implemented by FENAKA Corporation and STELCO, is expected to ease a significant financial burden on local councils. Until now, councils faced steep utility costs for keeping public areas lit, consuming resources that could otherwise be directed toward community development and essential services.
By introducing this measure, the government is ensuring that local councils have greater financial flexibility to improve services such as waste management, island infrastructure, health programs, and social initiatives.
President Muizzu emphasized the decision on social media, framing it as a key element of his administration’s decentralization agenda. “This will empower councils to focus resources on serving the people better” he noted, underscoring his broader vision of shifting power and responsibility closer to the people.
This change marks another milestone in the President’s ongoing efforts to deliver tangible benefits at the grassroots level, further aligning government policy with the aspirations of island communities.
