What is the Tuvalu solar power project?

The Government of Tuvalu worked with the e8 group to develop the Tuvalu Solar Power Project, which is a 40 kW grid-connected solar system that is intended to provide about 5% of Funafuti ’s peak demand, and 3% of the Tuvalu Electricity Corporation's annual household consumption.

How can photovoltaic energy be used in Tuvalu?

This technology could also be used for drying copra quickly and effectively. • To produce electricity from PV cells. Photovoltaic energy, in use in Tuvalu for over 20 years, is a promising electricity production solution but where there is also significant room for technological and economical improvement.

What is the main source of energy in Tuvalu?

The primary energy consumption represents the upstream supply. The only national energy source is biomass (18% of total consumption). Photovoltaic and thermal solar contribute for less than 1%. The balance of supply is oil (Fig. 2). Tuvalu is close to being a totally oil dependent economy.

What was the first large scale solar system in Tuvalu?

The first large scale system in Tuvalu was a 40 kW solar panel installation on the roof of Tuvalu Sports Ground. This grid-connected 40 kW solar system was established in 2008 by the E8 and Japan Government through Kansai Electric Company (Japan) and contributes 1% of electricity production on Funafuti.

How much energy is wasted in Tuvalu?

Only 3,232 toe (71%) of primary energy supply reached an end-use category. 1,341 toe (29% of primary energy supply) was wasted, mainly due to low electricity generation efficiency. Tuvalu’s electricity consumption is increasing rapidly at a 3.8% yearly average rate over the last ten years. It reached 4,121 MWh in 2004.

Where does Tuvalu electricity come from?

Tuvalu's power has come from electricity generation facilities that use imported diesel brought in by ships. The Tuvalu Electricity Corporation (TEC) on the main island of Funafuti operates the large power station (2000 kW).