What is solar power in Tonga?

The solar PV system is part of a 1.25 MW portfolio, where power will be sold to the island’s villagers through pre-paid net metering. The Asian Development Bank, with the help of other institutions, is supporting the deployment of solar on the Pacific Ocean’s small island nations. Tonga has a goal of 50% renewable energy by 2020 and 70% by 2030.

Does Tongatapu need a solar power plant?

Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, who was also at the launch, said the plant indicates the need for independent power - like solar energy - to achieve their National Energy Roadmap. There is an aim to have up to 70 per cent renewable energy use in Tongatapu by the end of 2025.

Where is Tongatapu solar farm located?

Prime Minister of Tonga today announced the official launch of the 6-MW power purchase agreement (PPA) based Tongatapu Solar Farm located at Fualu, Tongatapu, which has supplied electricity to over 10,336 households since August this year.

How does the Tonga solar plant work?

Once operational, the solar plant will sell its electricity to Tonga’s power utility, Tonga Power Limited (TLP), through a subsidized tariff, which is assessed by the ADB for each project. The island's citizens purchase the electricity through prepaid metering.

How many solar PV plants will be built in Tonga?

The overall project comprises nine individual solar PV plants that will have a cumulative capacity of 1.25 MW to be built on Tonga’s remote islands. Some will feature additional storage systems, to power households, public facilities, and medical facilities.

What is the Tonga solar project?

1. The project will construct and install solar power systems with a total capacity of 1.32 MWp on the outer islands of Tonga, and the existing grid network on the islands of Vava'u and 'Eua rehabilitated by TPL. (The rehabilitated grid network portions on Vava'u and 'Eua are expanded). 2.