Does Fiji have solar power?

According to the annual reports of Energy Fiji Limited (EFL), there has been some solar electricity generated from 1998 to 2007 by solar PV system that was commissioned in November 1997 (FEA 2016). In 1998, this system generated around 12 MWh of electricity and was doing well for almost 6 years.

How is energy provided in Fiji?

The provision of energy in Fiji is provided through electrical power grids consisting of microgrids installed in Government facilities and community-run in rural areas. Furthermore, diesel generators and solar home systems also are utilized as a way of power providers.

What is the average solar insolation in Fiji?

Using 1983–2005 NASA data (NASA 2017), average annual insolation on a horizontal surface in Fiji is 5.4 kWh/m 2 /day with a standard deviation of 0.6 kWh/m 2 /day (see Fig. 8.1). During the mid-year, solar insolation reaches the lowest point of 4.0 kWh/m 2 /day while high solar insolation (around 6 kWh/m 2 /day) occurs from October to February.

How many solar panels are installed in Fiji?

In total, around 4 MW of solar PV is installed with some grid-connected solar systems planned and many off-grid solar system planned by Fiji Department of Energy with funding from Fijian government and overseas donor agencies.

Why is Fiji a good place to invest in solar energy?

Fiji is blessed with abundant solar energy resources that provide us with the opportunity to explore and utilize renewable energy potentials. The country has a mountainous terrain and powerful rivers that flow from the highlands to the sea making it suitable for the development of Hydro-Electric potential.

How much does solar PV cost in Fiji?

Solar PV has many advantages such as it has no moving parts and therefore does not require extensive operation and maintenance; solar resource is free and abundant at most locations in Fiji. For Fiji, the current installation cost of rooftop solar PV grid connected system is around 3100–3500 FJD/kW.