Will Nauru install a solar power plant?

Nauru has embarked on an ambitious project to install a grid-connected solar power plant with a capacity of 6 megawatts (MW) of alternating current. This initiative is part of the Solar Power Development Project, which aims to diversify the energy mix and reduce reliance on diesel.

How does Nauru get its energy?

Nauru predominantly sources its energy through diesel power generators. About 5% of its current energy demand is sourced from renewable energy, of which all is from solar power photovoltaic (PV) installations. A 500-kW ground-mounted solar installation was commissioned in 2016, and a number of residences have rooftop solar PV installations.

Who will implement solar project in Nauru?

The executing agency will be the Department of Finance and Sustainable Development. The implementing agency for solar component of project will be the Nauru Utilities Corporation (NUC). NUC will establish a project management unit within their existing organisational structure to implement the project.

How will ADB support the Nauru solar power development project?

ADB also provided GoN support to prepare a Feasibility Study for the recommended Nauru Solar Power Development Project which will comprise of a 6 megawatt PV plant coupled with a 5 megawatt / 2.5 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system coupled with a SCADA installation.

How will Nauru's solar power system work?

The system will be fully integrated and automated with the existing diesel generation (17.9 MW installed capacity currently manually operated) to optimize solar energy use, to enable optimal BESS charging/discharging and to provide optimal shut off of the diesel engines. This will reduce Nauru’s over reliance on diesel for power generation.

Who owns Nauru electricity?

The Nauru electrical network is owned and operated by Nauru Utilities Corporation (NUC), a state-owned enterprise, established under the Nauru Utilities Corporation Act of 2011. NUC is responsible for energy generation and energy distribution, and water supply. Nauru predominantly sources its energy through diesel power generators.