What is the future of power in the Cook Islands?

Now with full-time power, the future has taken a new shape for Cook Islands’ residents thanks to government renewable energy – leading to an improved quality of life, and increased economy activity. The improved livelihood in the communities that now have the benefit of reliable, 24hour power supply is immeasurable.

How much energy does the Cook Islands use?

The Cook Islands is a net importer of energy, in the form of petroleum products. Total energy consumption was 1,677,278,000 BTU (1.77 TJ) in 2017, of which 811,000,000 (0.86 TJ) was in the form of oil. In 2012 47% of imported oil was used in the transport sector, 30% in aviation, and 27% for electricity generation.

What regulatory functions does infrastructure Cook Islands have?

Infrastructure Cook Islands has a few regulatory functions. These are as road manager, and housing Building Control and the Electrical Inspectorate.

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.

How did we help the Cook Islands Government achieve its aim?

We helped the government realise its aim. To support the Cook Islands Government, the New Zealand Government – through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, installed mini-grid photo-voltaic power systems in a number of villages on six remote islands. We helped manage this logistically enjoyable project.

How was electricity produced in the Cook Islands?

Electricity in the Cook Islands was historically produced by diesel generators on each island. Fuel was imported from Auckland and required long sea voyages to get to the northern atolls, resulting in high costs and occasional supply disruptions.