New Caledonia pros of solar energy

How much energy does New Caledonia use?

Nickel refining is energy intensive and the sector is by far the greatest user of energy in New Caledonia, at around 75-80% of total usage. Each of the three largest refineries uses approximately 100-200MW of power, collectively some 500-600MW. The power generation infrastructure at SLN is aging and parts are up to 50 years old.

What is New Caledonia's energy policy?

As a country of Oceania, one of the parts of the world most impacted by climate change, New Caledonia wishes to be exemplary in terms of energy policy. Building on the Paris Agreement, the Congress of New Caledonia adopted the Energetic Transition Scheme of New Caledonia (STENC) in June 2016. The scheme has three main objectives for 2030:

Where is wind power used in New Caledonia?

Wind power is a small part of the renewable energy market in New Caledonia and is used mainly at nickel refineries or as a back-up power source. The towns of Voh and Mont-Dore, home to the two main wind farms, are each also home to a nickel refinery. French companies also dominate this market segment.

Why is New Caledonia so vulnerable?

The dependence and size of New Caledonia’s market compared to larger countries in the Asia-Pacific zone makes the island very vulnerable in terms of energy supply – an unnecessary level of dependence considering the local renewable resources that could be exploited on the island.

Why is AfD cofinancing the largest solar power plant in New Caledonia?

AFD is cofinancing the largest solar power plant in New Caledonia to allow cleaner energy to be generated. 43,000 photovoltaic panels will be installed, with a capacity to produce electricity for the equivalent of 5,400 households.

What is New Caledonia's main energy source?

New Caledonia depends on imports for 96% of its energy needs, mainly used in mining operations. Imports of coal and oil products remain the main energy sources of the territory.