In its approach to delivering a 100% renewable energy target across 12 islands by 2020, the Cook Islands presents a rare insight into how planning requirements of high penetration renewable island systems var.
Does Rarotonga have solar power?
The Cook Islands Electricity Sector All inhabited islands of the Cook Islands currently have centralised power supplies that have historically been powered by diesel generators. Since around 2011, increasing solar PV generation on Rarotonga has changed this situation.
Can solar power be installed on Aitutaki?
Fig 4 presents such an approach for the medium-size island of Aitutaki. At the moment, Aitutaki is a power system 100% supplied by diesel generators (3 x 600 kW). During Stage 1, 1 MW of solar PV will be installed on the island which will run in parallel with the existing diesel generators.
Where are the battery energy storage systems located?
The three Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are located at Te Aponga Uira (TAU) Power Station up the Avatiu Valley, Rarotonga Airport West, and Airport South.
Where do most people live in the Cook Islands?
Most of the Cook Islands people live in the Southern Islands. Two largest Islands are Rarotonga (main island) and Aitutaki The Government of the Cook Islands has a long standing policy commitment of 100% renewable electricity by 2020.
How many islands are in the Cook Islands?
The Cook Islands Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the Cook Islands has 15 islands, of which 12 are inhabited. Most of the Cook Islands 13,000 permanent residents live on Rarotonga, in the south. Aitutaki has a population of approximately 1,800, and remaining islands are sparsely populated. Fig 1.