How will Tonga reduce dependency on petroleum-based fuel for energy consumption?

This project is expected to urgently reduce dependency on petroleum-based fuel for energy consumption. Tonga relies on diesel power generation for 98% of its power supply and frequently suffers from rises in electricity charges due to a rise in fuel prices.

Why are electricity charges so high in Tonga?

In Tonga, electricity charges soared as a result of a global rise in crude oil prices in 2008, causing serious damage to the people’s lives and national economy. This project is expected to urgently reduce dependency on petroleum-based fuel for energy consumption.

What is Tonga's energy policy?

To reduce the dependence on petroleum-based fuel for its energy supply and overcome the vulnerability to fluctuations in transaction prices in the global oil market, Tonga has promoted, as its energy policy goal, to introduce renewable energy and alleviate risk of fluctuations in petroleum product prices.

What is Tongatapu Island's PV system?

In Tongatapu Island, the PV system with an installed capacity of 1,300 kWp was built with the aid of New Zealand in August 2012 and has been commercially operated.

What is JICA & Tonga cooperation project?

This cooperation project is in accordance with Japan’s grant aid scheme, and thus is carried out after approval of the Government of Japan, conclusion of the Exchange of Notes (E/N) between the relevant governments and conclusion of the Grant Agreement (G/A) between JICA and Tonga.

What is the frequency management in Tongatapu power system?

In Tongatapu power system, management of frequency is stipulated to keep within range of ± 1% (± 0.5 Hz) of the base frequency (50 Hz) based on EN50160 as shown in Table 3-2-2-1.3. In the meantime, as described above, frequency is maintained within the range of ± 0.1 to 0.2 Hz in actual operation.