How will Tonga move away from fossil fuels?

This project aims to help Tonga move away from fossil fuels and shift to renewables. The project will deliver utility-scale storage systems to provide base load response and grid stability, paving the way for more renewable energy integration in the main island, while green mini-grids will be installed in the outer islands.

How can Tonga transform its energy sector?

The Government of Tonga has formulated targets to transform its energy sector by achieving a 50 percent share of renewables in the country’s energy generation mix by 2020 and 70 percent by 2030. However, achieving these targets require catalytic investments to transform the country’s energy infrastructure.

How many people have access to electricity in Tonga?

This means that little more than 30,000 people are spread across 35 islands, presenting acute issues in terms of the provision of modern infrastructure. At OIREP commencement, the ADB estimated that 89% of all households across Tonga had access to electricity.

Can Australia help secure Tonga's outer island energy needs?

Australia also has a long history of engagement in relation to helping secure Tonga’s outer island energy needs. In the early 2000s, Australia funded the Ha’apai Outer Islands Electrification project (HOIEP), which involved the installation of diesel-powered generators and electrical reticulation on four islands in the Ha’apai group.

How much energy does Tonga generate?

It accounts for 90 percent of its electricity generation. The Government of Tonga has formulated targets to transform its energy sector by achieving a 50 percent share of renewables in the country’s energy generation mix by 2020 and 70 percent by 2030.

Why is electricity so expensive in Tonga?

This has contributed to the Tongan economy and electricity consumers being exposed to high and volatile electricity prices due to fluctuations in the price of oil internationally. According to UK-based aggregate website Cable, Tonga's electricity is the 13th most expensive in the world, at an average cost of USD 0.35 per kilowatt hour (kWh).