Cook Islands wind and solar power combined

How will new energy technologies affect the Cook Islands?

In future, new energy technologies such as marine energy may offer new opportunities for the Cook Islands to generate electricity from other renewable sources. Developments in energy storage or in energy efficiency may also further reduce the Cook Islands’ reliance on diesel. The Cook Islands prefers to use proven and economic energy technologies.

Does the Cook Islands have solar power?

The Cook Islands Electricity Sector historically been powered by diesel generators. Since around 2011, increasing solar PV generation on Rarotonga has changed this situation. And in 2014- 15, installation of 95-100% renewable solar hybrid systems on the Northern Group Islands further altered the mix.

Will the Cook Islands use renewable electricity?

The Cook Islands will be careful in its selection of renewable electricity options and will not entertain unproven or non-commercial technologies. The attached Summary Table provides some indicative and preliminary information on the types and costs of the renewable electricity technologies we are considering.

What changes will the Cook Islands make?

The changes will include management of power utilities, environmentally friendly and cost effective renewable electricity sources, and energy efficient strategies. The Cook Islands will be careful in its selection of renewable electricity options and will not entertain unproven or non-commercial technologies.

How much energy does the Cook Islands use?

Energy consumption in Cook Islands is predominantly reliant on imported fossil fuels, which roughly accounts for over 99% of the country’s energy consumption. In 2009, around 12.7 million litres of diesel, 4.2 million litres of petrol, and 9.7 million litres of kerosene were imported into the country.

What is a Cook Islands renewable electricity chart (road map)?

This document is called the Cook Islands Renewable Electricity “Chart”. Other countries have called similar documents a “Road map” – and these are countries that are either landlocked or have many kilometres of road between settlements. Our environment is different. We have many kilometres of sea between islands.