COOK ISLANDS COUNTRY REPORT

FAQS about Cook Islands latest solar energy

How much electricity does the Cook Islands use per capita?

Per-capita electricity consumption is approximately two-thirds that in the European Union. Greenhouse gas emissions total 88,810 t per year, or 10.36 t per capita. Electricity in the Cook Islands was historically produced by diesel generators on each island.

Is full-time power the future of Cook Islands?

Now with full-time power, the future has taken a new shape for Cook Islands’ residents – an improved quality of life, and increased economy activity. The improved livelihood in the communities that now have the benefit of reliable, 24hour power supply is immeasurable.

Why is there no electricity on the islands?

Bad weather and other events often prevent goods arriving on the islands. Previously, electricity was provided by diesel generators, usually for around 12 hours per day. Power supply was effected by issues of reliability, maintainability, capacity and access to adequate, regular diesel supplies.

How did we help the Cook Islands Government achieve its aim?

We helped the government realise its aim. To support the Cook Islands Government, the New Zealand Government – through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, installed mini-grid photo-voltaic power systems in a number of villages on six remote islands. We helped manage this logistically enjoyable project.

FAQS about Tsl energy Cook Islands

How much energy does the Cook Islands use?

The Cook Islands is a net importer of energy, in the form of petroleum products. Total energy consumption was 1,677,278,000 BTU (1.77 TJ) in 2017, of which 811,000,000 (0.86 TJ) was in the form of oil. In 2012 47% of imported oil was used in the transport sector, 30% in aviation, and 27% for electricity generation.

Who imports the fuel in Cook Islands?

85% of the country's fuel and all of its jet fuel is imported by Pacific Energy. The Energy Act 1998 established an Energy Division within the Ministry of Works, Energy and Physical Planning (now Infrastructure Cook Islands) responsible for energy policy and electricity inspections.

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.

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.

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.

Which Cook Islands have 24 hour electricity?

Aitutaki, Mangaia and Atiu are other islands in Cook Islands that also have access to 24-hour electricity. The rest of the islands have access to small scale power. Power production and distribution in Rarotonga is managed by Te Aponga Uira O Tumu te Varovaro (TAU).