Why is the power supply so important in the Cook Islands?

The continuous power supply is essential, as the island's fishermen rely on freezers to store their catches before shipping them to Rarotonga. The last ship left Palmerston on 3 March 2025. - Cook Islands News Copyright © 2025, Radio New Zealand

Why is the Cook Islands running on intermittent solar power?

Cook Islands News Copyright © 2025, Radio New Zealand The isolated island has been running on intermittent solar power since 19 April due to the failure of its ageing diesel generator.

How was electricity produced in the Cook Islands?

Electricity in the Cook Islands was historically produced by diesel generators on each island. Fuel was imported from Auckland and required long sea voyages to get to the northern atolls, resulting in high costs and occasional supply disruptions.

How much energy does the Cook Islands use?

The Cook Islands is a net importer of energy, in the form of petroleum products. Total energy consumption was 1,677,278,000 BTU (1.77 TJ) in 2017, of which 811,000,000 (0.86 TJ) was in the form of oil. In 2012 47% of imported oil was used in the transport sector, 30% in aviation, and 27% for electricity generation.

Who imports the fuel in Cook Islands?

85% of the country's fuel and all of its jet fuel is imported by Pacific Energy. The Energy Act 1998 established an Energy Division within the Ministry of Works, Energy and Physical Planning (now Infrastructure Cook Islands) responsible for energy policy and electricity inspections.

What does the Cook Islands national environment service do?

The Cook Islands National Environment Service recognises the importance of the environment to the people of the Cook Islands. Our cultural identity is deeply rooted in our environment and it is a part of our heritage and legacy that must be passed on to future generations of Cook Islanders.