Does Rarotonga have solar power?

The Cook Islands Electricity Sector All inhabited islands of the Cook Islands currently have centralised power supplies that have historically been powered by diesel generators. Since around 2011, increasing solar PV generation on Rarotonga has changed this situation.

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.

Can solar power be used in the Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands has abundant solar radiation, which makes solar electricity PV an attractive option. On average, about 80 percent of households already use solar water heating, and we are committed to increasing the use of photovoltaics for electricity generation and to reduce reliance on diesel.

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.

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.

Where are solar panels installed in the Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands is a recipient of the Fund and has committed to installing Solar (PV) systems for the islands of Rakahanga, Pukapuka, Nassau, Suwarrow and part of Manihiki.