Why do we need solar power in Tonga?

Renewables like solar are a significant means for Tonga to expand energy access, stabilize power grids as well as reduce pollution. Considering the shortage of solar expertise and finances for countries like Togan, the role of independent power producers and the practice of PPA provide solid support to smooth the way for solar deployment.

Where is Tongatapu solar farm located?

Prime Minister of Tonga today announced the official launch of the 6-MW power purchase agreement (PPA) based Tongatapu Solar Farm located at Fualu, Tongatapu, which has supplied electricity to over 10,336 households since August this year.

What does Sunergise's 6MW solar system mean for Tonga?

As Hu'akavameiliku, Prime Minister of Tonga said at the ceremony: "The successful completion of the Sunergise's 6MW Independent Power Producer solar generation system today, demonstrates the major role renewable energy independent power producers play towards achieving our 70% target by [the] end of [the] year 2025."

What is Sunergise Tongatapu solar farm?

The Sunergise Tongatapu Solar Farm is the largest in the South Pacific. It was built as part of a power purchase agreement between Sunergise New Zealand Limited, a Todd Corporation solar company and Tonga Power Limited, with support from the Asian Development Bank.

Does Tonga use fossil fuels?

Statistics show that, as of 2020, nearly all electricity in Tonga came from fossil fuels. As an island country with a total surface area of merely 290 sq mi, Tongan's power generation heavily relies on imported fossil fuels.

What challenges did Tongatapu's solar arrays face in 2022?

Comprising three interconnected 2.3MWp ground mounted solar arrays in western Tongatapu, the construction phase successfully met the extreme challenges presented by the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption and resulting tsunami, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic.