Providing Energy to Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

The Caribbean Islands and Mauritius, in 2012, had an average cost of USD 0.33/kWh. In 2010, Hawaii was paying an average cost of USD 0.43/kWh for electricity. The cost of electricity in the Pacific Islands in 2010 was quite volatile, at times as low as USD 0.17/kWh to as high as USD 0.51/kWh. Compare these prices to the 2014 EU member states (USD 0.26/kWh), Canada and China (USD 0.09/kWh), and that is a substantial cost difference.

Additional Power Challenges for Small Island Developing States:

Not only does traditional fossil fuel electricity present problems in terms of cost to SIDS, but the environmental impact of using fossil fuels for energy is also substantial. Air and water pollution result from combustion and spillage. The tourism industry alone contributes about 5% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which has a long-term negative environmental impact.

Beyond this, there are entire communities in some of these island countries, like Fiji, that are still operating without electricity due to prohibitive cost and difficult to overcome infrastructure limitations.

Governments of SIDS are recognizing the environmental impact of using fossil fuels, as well as the need to provide electricity to remote villages currently without access. These nations are now pursuing renewable energy policies that will protect the fragile ecosystems, as well as help lower the overall cost of providing energy.

Types of Renewable Energy on SIDS:

There are four primary types of renewable energy technology that are generally available to SIDS:

• Solar photovoltaic (PV)– This type of system produces electricity from the sun, usually replacing diesel-generated electricity.
• Solar Water Heating (SWH)– This type of system uses solar heat to warm up domestic water, usually replacing electric water heaters.
• Solar Air Conditioning (SAC)– This type of system uses solar heat to provide heating and cooling, typically replacing HVAC or traditional electric chillers.
• Sea Water Air Conditioning (SWAC)– This type of system uses cold water from the ocean depths to provide air conditioning to hotel rooms and facilities, generally replacing HVAC units and traditional electric chillers.

Common Renewable Energy Objections:

Implementing renewable energy technologies on SIDS won’t take off without public awareness and educational campaigns. Many people still believe the challenges are higher than the rewards. Every situation is unique and it’s critical that every municipality, business and facility evaluate the feasibility of all options before assuming green technologies are prohibitive.

• Upfront Cost– Depending on the renewable energy technology (RET) that is being considered, the cost may seem prohibitive at first look. The initial investment requires that cash is provided upfront, which may be difficult to obtain in some situations. Studies show that the cost can be recouped quite quickly, depending on the type of RET, in lowered energy bills. New financing options, governmental programs and investor assistance are all being developed continuously.
• Knowledge Gaps– Installation of RET’s require skilled construction workers and electricians, which may or may not be available on some islands. This is where finding an experienced Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) partner is important.
• Competitive Suppliers– While there is often at least one renewable energy supplier available, the market is still very new on these islands, resulting in a lack of competition. At times this can result in higher than typical costs, which may be found to be prohibitive. Luckily more players are entering the market as SIDS are realizing renewable energy is their best alternative.

Conclusion:

Meeting the energy needs of SIDs is challenging, but affordable, reliable and sustainable technologies are available. Governments, international trade partners, suppliers and investors are all joining forces to power islands with renewable energy. For example, Fiji’s aggressive renewable energy goal of 99% by 2030 will require bold vision and collaboration among committed partners.

Vision Energy Solutions (VES) is your expert resource for implementing and executing Small Island Developing States (SIDS) renewable energy projects. VES offers a broad range of power generation solutions. We will assess your unique circumstances to determine if a traditional grid-connected system, off-grid battery storage system, micro-grid or hybrid solution will be best suited for your needs.

Our integrated turnkey services will ensure your project is well-managed. Experts are available in project development, financing, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC), operation and maintenance (O&M), and intelligent energy management systems (EMS.)

Let’s discuss your energy needs to determine what’s possible.