How will solar energy be produced in Palau?

Solar electricity will be produced by a hybrid 15.3 MWdc (13.2 MWac) solar photovoltaic (PV) plus 10.2 MWac/12.9 MWh battery energy storage system facility. Extensive safeguards to protect Palau’s pristine environment SPEC did not leave any stone unturned to protect the pristine Palau ecosystem.

Why did PPUC buy a solar power plant in Palau?

In March 2024, PPUC acquired energy from Palau’s first commercial Independent Power Producer (IPP), a solar company. This allowed them to replace two diesel generators with solar power. While a positive step towards renewable energy goals, the IPP system currently lacks battery storage, limiting its ability to maximise excess energy.

What is a solar PV project in Palau?

With a capacity of 15.3 MWp solar PV and 12.9 MWh BESS, the project supports Palau's goal of achieving a 45% renewable energy share by 2025. The project's total investment of USD 29 million contributes to Palau's energy independence, clean power generation, carbon emissions reduction, and local employment opportunities.

Does Palau rely on fossil fuels?

As a small island developing state, the Republic of Palau sought to wean itself off its dependence on fossil fuel for power, which accounts for 99.7% of the country’s power generation. To address this issue, Palau invited Solar Pacific Energy Corporation (SPEC), Alternergy’s solar developer, to develop a clean, renewable energy source.

How many people benefited from Palau solar PV & Bess project?

“The project provided employment to about 300 people during construction,” he said. The Palau Solar PV + BESS project, with a capacity of 15.3 MWp solar PV and 12.9 MWh BESS, is one of the biggest foreign direct investments in the country with a total project cost of USD29 million.

Is Palau a sustainable country?

Overview The pristine island nation of Palau is small yet proud, standing as a bright beacon of sustainability in the vast Pacific Ocean. As a small island developing state, the Republic of Palau sought to wean itself off its dependence on fossil fuel for power, which accounts for 99.7% of the country’s power generation.