In 2022, the Cook Islands showed a balanced state of electricity generation, with half coming from low-carbon sources and the other half from fossil fuels. Notably, solar power emerged as the dominant player in the clean electricity segment, accounting for all of the low-carbon generation. This leads to the encouraging observation that low-carbon and fossil electricity are at an equal footing, meaning the island is at a pivotal point where it can decisively shift towards cleaner power. The continued reliance on fossil fuels, however, highlights the urgent need for further steps toward expanding green electricity to curb the adverse effects associated with fossil energy, such as climate change and air pollution.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Cook Islands?
Regarding electricity consumption trends, the Cook Islands experienced a decline in per capita electricity usage, with the latest figures at 2,720 kWh per person, a drop from the peak of 3,015 kWh per person recorded in 2018. The reduction of nearly 300 kWh per person indicates a contraction in overall electricity consumption, which might reflect either improved efficiency or other energy suppression factors. However, on the brighter side, there is a positive trend in clean energy adoption. The per capita low-carbon electricity generation reached a new high of 1,360 kWh, slightly surpassing the previous year's record by 41 kWh. This growth in sustainable power highlights a promising shift towards embracing cleaner energy sources.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, the Cook Islands should focus on expanding its solar power capacity, given its current effectiveness and high potential. Learning from regions with significant clean energy contributions can provide valuable insights. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia generate more than half of their electricity through nuclear power, showcasing the potential of nuclear energy. Similarly, Iowa and South Dakota have successfully harnessed vast amounts of wind energy. These examples highlight the advantages of embracing both solar and nuclear technologies, which can significantly aid the Cook Islands in its ambitious pursuit of a cleaner electricity grid.
History
Historically, the Cook Islands saw consistent solar electricity generation over the years from 2017 to 2022, with no reported changes. This stagnation in low-carbon electricity growth is disappointing and underscores the necessity for bold initiatives to increase clean energy production. The consistency in solar usage over this period may mean stable but insufficient progress toward a sustainable energy future. This trend could alarmingly slow down progress in cutting down fossil fuel reliance unless remedial actions are undertaken to expand solar capacity and encourage potential investments in nuclear energy, ensuring a comprehensive and resilient clean electricity infrastructure.
