Does the Cook Islands have electricity?

The Cook Islands has a financially healthy electricity sector with technical and commercial challenges requiring on-going investment. With the exception of Pukapuka, Nassau and Suwarrow, the Cook Islands has some form of electricity network. Power supply on Rarotonga is the responsibility of the government-owned utility Te Aponga Uira (“TAU”).

Why is pricing important in the Cook Islands?

Pricing is a key tool for influencing consumer behaviour. An appropriate price needs to be set that encourages energy efficient behaviour and reduces the costs to the Government, whilst also achieving its vision of reducing the costs of living and business for residents and attracting Cook Islands people to live and invest in their homeland.

How will electricity tariffs be reviewed in the Cook Islands?

Electricity tariffs will be reviewed so that they, as a minimum, ensure on-going operational viability and account for disadvantaged sections of communities. The Cook Islands Government will review the institutional arrangements to best achieve the 50/15 – 100/20 renewable electricity policy goals for the electricity sector.

Can solar power be used in the Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands has abundant solar radiation, which makes solar electricity PV an attractive option. On average, about 80 percent of households already use solar water heating, and we are committed to increasing the use of photovoltaics for electricity generation and to reduce reliance on diesel.

Where are solar panels installed in the Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands is a recipient of the Fund and has committed to installing Solar (PV) systems for the islands of Rakahanga, Pukapuka, Nassau, Suwarrow and part of Manihiki.

What makes the Cook Islands unique?

As a small island developing state, the Cook Islands has unique attributes that considerably enhance the benefits to be gained from renewable electricity. Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the Cook Islands is sandwiched between Tonga to the west, Kiribati to the north and French Polynesia to the east.