As of 2022, Cook Islands has made a balanced effort to derive its electricity from both low-carbon and fossil sources, each covering half of the electricity generation. Solar energy, in particular, stands out as the predominant clean energy source, contributing all of the low-carbon electricity for the islands. This balance suggests a significant reliance on the sun to power the nation sustainably. However, the equal split between clean and fossil energy indicates that there is substantial room for improvement to lessen environmental impact and mitigate climate change, particularly by increasing the share of low-carbon sources like solar and potentially exploring nuclear energy in the future.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Cook Islands?
Despite these efforts, Cook Islands has not experienced growth in overall electricity consumption, with a decline from a previous peak. In 2022, electricity consumption stood at 2720 kWh per person, showing a significant drop from the 2018 record of 3015 kWh per person. However, the silver lining is in the low-carbon sector, where there was a slight increase. In 2022, low-carbon electricity generation grew to 1360 kWh per person from a previous high in 2021, showing an upward trend. This suggests gradual progress towards clean energy goals, even though total electricity consumption has decreased.
Suggestions
To accelerate low-carbon electricity generation, expanding existing solar infrastructure would be a strategic move for Cook Islands, building on its strong solar base. Observing successful regions can offer valuable lessons. For instance, Denmark and Iowa, which derive 58% and 60% of their electricity from wind respectively, exemplify how investment in clean energy infrastructure can rapidly boost low-carbon energy. Likewise, nuclear, as utilized in places like France and Slovakia where it accounts for 70% and 66% of electricity, should be considered for future development. Incorporating insights from these regions can support Cook Islands in elevating its low-carbon energy game, thereby reducing dependence on fossil fuels and contributing to a sustainable future.
History
Historically, solar has been the consistent low-carbon electricity source for Cook Islands. From 2017 through 2022, solar energy consistently contributed to electricity generation without fluctuation, marking a stable presence in the islands' energy mix. This consistency underscores solar's reliability and potential for expansion as a staple of low-carbon electricity generation in Cook Islands. While this stability is commendable, further diversification into other forms of low-carbon electricity like nuclear can enhance energy security and sustainability, cementing Cook Islands as a leader in clean electricity usage in the region.
