Northern Mariana Islands emergency solar

What sectors use the most electricity in the Northern Mariana Islands?

The commercial sector, led by tourism, is typically the largest electricity-consuming sector in the Northern Mariana Islands. 47 CNMI hotels use electricity for air conditioning, water heating, water purification, and lighting.

Are solar farms coming to Saipan?

The CNMI Office of Planning and Development has received proposals for several large solar energy projects in recent years. Currently, three sites for solar farms on the islands have been identified. A large 20-megawatt solar photovoltaic (PV) facility on Saipan is in the preliminary stages of development.

What are the major industries in the Northern Mariana Islands?

The commercial sector, led by tourism, is typically the largest electricity-consuming sector in the Northern Mariana Islands. Commonwealth Utilities Corporation (CUC), a government corporation, provides electric power and drinking water on the populated islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

How big are the Northern Mariana Islands?

The Northern Mariana Islands are about 179 square miles in area, which is collectively about two-and-a-half times the size of Washington, DC. About two-thirds of the territory's land is forested and nearly 7% is used for agriculture, primarily cattle ranches and small farms.

Does CNMI have electricity?

CNMI's electric utility generates electricity at five diesel-fueled power plants (three on Saipan and one each on Tinian and Rota) and the territory’s entire population has access to electricity. In 2021, electricity prices in CNMI were 6% less than in 2019, but they were 2.5 times the U.S. average.