Can Tokelau support itself with solar energy?

Tokelau, an island nation in the South Pacific, is now completely able to support itself with solar energy. Elly Earls met Joseph Mayhew of the New Zealand Aid Programme to find out how this tiny collection of atolls has become almost 100% self-sufficient in less than 12 months.

Who will install a new solar system in Tokelau?

Jointly funded by the governments of Tokelau and New Zealand, the $NZ9 million ($USD5.7m) system will be installed by New Zealand companyVector PowerSmart. Tokelau's existing solar system was eight years old and in need of upgrading because of increasing demand for electricity and wear and tear from the harsh marine environment, it said.

Will Tokelau's solar energy system be upgraded?

Tokelau's solar energy systemis set to be upgraded on each of its three atolls. Jointly funded by the governments of Tokelau and New Zealand, the $NZ9 million ($USD5.7m) system will be installed by New Zealand company Vector PowerSmart.

How much electricity does a solar system provide in Tokelau?

Each system alone is among the largest off-grid solar power systems in the world, and together they are capable of providing 150% of current electricity demand in Tokelau, a much higher amount than the 90% that was originally planned for.

Why did Tokelau switch to solar?

Yet despite the challenges involved in installing comprehensive solar systems in such a remote location, switching to solar was absolutely crucial for the tiny collection of islands. "Tokelau’s atolls are low-lying and especially susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change," Mayhew stressed.

How many people live in Tokelau?

Tokelau is made up of three small atolls, Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo, has an area of around 10km² and is populated by 1,411 New Zealand citizens, all of whom now have their energy needs met by solar electricity systems. "Each system alone is among the largest off-grid solar power systems in the world."