Details were released on 75 sites to serve isolated communities in Fiji that lack access to reliable and affordable electricity, with plans to construct hybrid solar PV mini-grids through an estimated $60M USD in capital investment. The resulting mini-grids will support residential energy needs, public services, productive uses of energy, and community expansion to power new homes and small businesses.
The scope of effort for these 75 locations included in-person site assessments, power system design, geospatial site planning, business model review, and climate change impact assessments.
Public tenders will be prepared for public bid for mini-grid construction, operation, and maintenance. The structure of these tenders will be open for public comment through a Request for Information (RFI). Community engagement through a cooperative model is anticipated.
Job growth in the electrical sector and renewable energy industry is further expected to meet the rapid increase in demand for solar PV based systems.
This work is supported by the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and consortium partners including Arizona State University (ASU), Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), Xendee Corporation, the Community Energy Toolkit (COMET), the Government of Fiji Department of Energy, the Government of Fiji Ministry of Finance, Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF), and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Fiji Sites Map: 75 Hybrid Mini-Grids