Will Tuvalu achieve 100% renewables by 2030?

The pacific island nation of Tuvalu is on track to achieving its goal of 100% renewables by 2030, with the recent commissioning of a 500 kW rooftop solar project and 2 MWh battery energy storage system in it’s capital Funafuti. Image: United Nations Development Programme Pacific Office

What is the Tuvalu solar power project?

The Government of Tuvalu worked with the e8 group to develop the Tuvalu Solar Power Project, which is a 40 kW grid-connected solar system that is intended to provide about 5% of Funafuti 's peak demand, and 3% of the Tuvalu Electricity Corporation's annual household consumption.

What is the Tuvalu national energy policy (TNEP)?

The Tuvalu National Energy Policy (TNEP) was formulated in 2009, and the Energy Strategic Action Plan defines and directs current and future energy developments so that Tuvalu can achieve the ambitious target of 100% renewable energy for power generation by 2020.

What are the characteristics of Tuvalu's energy consumption?

Analysis of Tuvalu’s energy consumption reveals the following characteristics: • Tuvalu’s economy is almost totally dependant on oil. Only around 18% comes from local biomass resources, which is not accounted for in official statistics and is not the object of any active policy.

Where does Tuvalu electricity come from?

Tuvalu's power has come from electricity generation facilities that use imported diesel brought in by ships. The Tuvalu Electricity Corporation (TEC) on the main island of Funafuti operates the large power station (2000 kW).

Can Tuvalu save money on diesel?

The 191kWp project will provide the islands with 24 hours-a-day electricity and allow Tuvalu to save up to 120,000 litres of diesel per year, which will amount to a reduction in spending on diesel of about AU$200,000 per year.