EFL’s most recent annual report shows it generated 58.5% of its electricity from renewable power stations in 2021. Hydropower facilities claimed most of this share, while wind and solar were less than 1%. Around 35% of the total power mix was sourced from thermal power stations, and independent power producers generated 6.5%.
Accelerating Solar Panel Deployment in Fiji: Lighting Up Lives Across the IslandsFiji, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is on a mission to bring electricity to even the most remote islands in the pacific archipelago. An innovative project is underway with the goal of not only developing 75 mini-grid site tenders, but also uplifting communities through economic development, healthcare access, and education opportunities.
Tenders: Building Bridges to ProgressAt the heart of this initiative are tenders—documents that map out the blueprint for constructing mini-grid infrastructure. They’re essentially the keys to unlocking progress, inviting companies to bid for the construction, operation, and maintenance of these vital energy networks. The end goal? To empower companies to electrify Fiji and set its communities on a path to prosperity.
Prioritizing ProgressWith countless potential sites across the islands, prioritization is key. The project team ranks sites based on a multitude of factors, including economic development potential, accessibility to healthcare, and proximity to schools. It’s not just about electricity; it’s about creating an environment where growth and opportunity can flourish.
Diverse Deployment Across the IslandsThe beauty of this initiative lies in its diversity. Mini-grid sites are scattered throughout Fiji’s various regions, ensuring that no corner of the islands are left in the dark. From remote villages nestled in lush forests to coastal communities touched by the sea, Fiji’s unique landscape will be connected by the strands of renewable energy.
On the Ground: From Villages to ValleysTo make informed decisions, the project team embarks on-site visits. These journeys serve multiple purposes – they gather crucial information, assess land availability, and gauge the scale of potential impact. We will find out how many houses can be illuminated. We seek to answer questions such as: how many houses could be illuminated; how many schools, churches, and businesses can thrive with a stable source of electricity? These visits are more than just fieldwork; they’re explorations into brighter futures.
Calculating the Load with CometOne key aspect of the project is determining the energy needs of each site. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor; load estimation is essential. To ensure that each mini-grid operates efficiently, the Comet tool is employed. It helps calculate load estimations, ensuring that the energy systems are perfectly tailored to the specific needs of each community.
Building BridgesWhile the project is making great strides, it’s also building bridges with local communities. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive. People are eager to welcome solar power into their lives, and excited about the new opportunities it will bring. The fieldwork also brings moments of cultural exchange, where sharing a cup of Kava, (or yaquona) a traditional drink made from the roots of the kava plant, a central element of Fijian social gatherings and ceremonies for centuries, becomes a symbol of camaraderie.
Details were released on 75 sites to serve isolated communities in Fiji that lack access to reliable and affordable electricity, with plans to construct hybrid solar PV mini-grids through an estimated $60M USD in capital investment. The resulting mini-grids will support residential energy needs, public services, productive uses of energy, and community expansion to power new homes and small businesses.
Public tenders will be prepared for public bid for mini-grid construction, operation, and maintenance. The structure of these tenders will be open for public comment through a Request for Information (RFI). Community engagement through a cooperative model is anticipated.
This work is supported by the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and consortium partners including Arizona State University (ASU), Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), Xendee Corporation, the Community Energy Toolkit (COMET), the Government of Fiji Department of Energy, the Government of Fiji Ministry of Finance, Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF), and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
“Fiji remains a strong global advocate for climate change mitigation and the clean energy transition. Rolling out solar mini-grids is not simply an environmental imperative, however, it is the smartest choice economically.”
"So far Fiji has managed to connect almost 96 percent of our population to energy and a small community that is four percent are in very isolated areas and it is this kind of projects and support from development partners that’s critical for us to not only increase the electricity connections but move towards the cleaner energy.”
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