Islands face a significant challenge in terms of energy supply due to their small size and isolated energy systems. For electricity generation, transportation, and heating, they are largely reliant on fossil fuel imports, which are not just a significant producer of CO2, but are also costly. The cost of generating electricity on an island can be up to ten times that of the mainland!
Using innovative technology to transition to a more sustainable energy supply is crucial for long-term economic growth, besides contributing to local skills and jobs for island communities.
During the recently concluded Virtual Island Summit 2021, we explored the experiences of island territories’ forays into the field of renewable energy sources and how they are striving to transition away from the use of fossil fuels through proactive steps and decisive conversations. Have you missed the main sessions about energy transition at the Virtual Island Summit? Watch them now:
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Located in the mountains of northern New Mexico, Picuris Pueblo is the smallest tribal nation in the state. With relatively few opportunities for economic development in its remote location, Picuris partnered with Kit Carson Electric Cooperative in 2018 to embark on a solar power project that would create revenue for Picuris, meet 100 percent of daytime energy demand with solar power, and reduce energy costs for tribal members.
Project developers can use the map to contact potential microgrid participants and work with Hawaiian Electric to apply for specific microgrid projects, according to the utility.
The initiative is part of the DOE’s Energy Transitions Initiative Partnership Project (ETIPP), which, in its initial round, is helping 11 remote and island communities to reduce energy costs and power outages.