Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) are increasingly turning to renewable energy sources to enhance energy security, reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, and address climate change. Among the various renewable options, hydropower—particularly small hydropower (SHP)—stands out due to its reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Current Status of Hydropower
Fiji: Fiji has made significant strides in hydropower development. The Nadarivatu Hydropower Station, commissioned in 2012, boasts a capacity of 41.7 MW and contributes substantially to the nation’s electricity supply .
Papua New Guinea (PNG): PNG has an installed SHP capacity of 41 MW, with an estimated potential of 153 MW. This indicates that approximately 27% of the SHP potential has been developed. The country is actively working on projects like the 3 MW Ramazon plant and another 10 MW project undergoing feasibility studies .
Samoa: Samoa’s SHP capacity stands at 15.5 MW, with a total potential estimated at 22 MW. Hydropower once supplied over 85% of the country’s electricity, but this share has declined due to growing demand. Recent rehabilitation projects have reconnected 4.69 MW of SHP capacity to the grid, reaffirming hydropower’s role as a cost-effective energy source .
Solomon Islands: With an SHP installed capacity of 361 kW and a potential of 11 MW, only about 3% has been harnessed. The country is developing projects like the 30 kW Beulah micro-hydropower plant. Notably, the Tina River Hydropower Development Project, a 15 MW installation, is underway and expected to supply 65% of Honiara’s electricity demand upon completion .
Vanuatu: Vanuatu’s SHP installed capacity is 1.3 MW, with a potential of 5.4 MW, indicating that about 24% has been developed. Plans are in place to construct 13 new micro-hydropower plants totaling 1.5 MW. However, site assessments require multi-year monitoring to evaluate hydropower potential and flood risks .
Challenges and Opportunities
While hydropower offers numerous benefits, PICTs face challenges such as high initial investment costs, logistical difficulties due to remote locations, and vulnerability to climate-induced weather variability. Nevertheless, opportunities exist through international funding, technological advancements, and regional cooperation to overcome these hurdles.
Future Outlook
The commitment of Pacific Island nations to renewable energy is evident, with targets like achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030. Hydropower, with its reliability and cost-effectiveness, is poised to play a pivotal role in this transition. Continued investment, capacity building, and sustainable planning will be crucial to fully realize the hydropower potential in the region.
Post time: May-27-2025
