EDTL and IFC sign technical assistance deal for Timor-Leste wind projects
EDTL plans to invite bids in 2027, with private investors expected to finance the proposed wind developments in Viqueque and Bobonaro.
Timor-Leste’s public electricity company EDTL signed an agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) on 6 October 2026 for technical support to prepare proposed wind power developments at Larigutu in Viqueque and Oe-leu in Bobonaro.
EDTL executive commission president Paulo da Silva said feasibility studies were continuing after starting in 2025. IFC’s assistance would focus on preparing tender documents, with the two sides aiming to finish preparations by mid-2027 so bidding could begin.
Da Silva said EDTL hoped to sign a power purchase agreement by the middle or end of 2027 if preparations proceeded smoothly. The investment requirement had not yet been established because technical estimates were still being developed. He said private investors would finance the projects under an independent power producer model, also used for the solar PV project in Manatuto.
World Bank representative in Timor-Leste David Freedman said IFC specialists would work with EDTL to examine development options for both locations. Wind measurements were continuing, and detailed project plans would be prepared before the tender. He said the agreement would support the government’s approved medium-term plan for 2027-2030.
Public Works Minister Samuel Marçal said he hoped procurement could take place by mid-2027 or before that year ended, allowing completion by the end of 2028-2029. He also said he had promised the prime minister that EDTL would become self-sufficient in 2030-2031, without government subsidies.
