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.

Does the Cook Islands have electricity?

The Cook Islands has a financially healthy electricity sector with technical and commercial challenges requiring on-going investment. With the exception of Pukapuka, Nassau and Suwarrow, the Cook Islands has some form of electricity network. Power supply on Rarotonga is the responsibility of the government-owned utility Te Aponga Uira (“TAU”).

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.

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.

What sectors rely on imported energy in the Cook Islands?

There are three main sectors dependent on imported energy in the Cook Islands; these include transport, electricity and aviation. Of the total number of imported fuels into the country, 43% is used by transport; 30% by aviation and 27% by electricity.

How will electricity tariffs be reviewed in the Cook Islands?

Electricity tariffs will be reviewed so that they, as a minimum, ensure on-going operational viability and account for disadvantaged sections of communities. The Cook Islands Government will review the institutional arrangements to best achieve the 50/15 – 100/20 renewable electricity policy goals for the electricity sector.