19 Aug 2008

Niue eyes solar power to ward off diesel price increase

5:22 pm on 19 August 2008

Niue's Government wants to help its people install solar and other renewable energy options as it struggles to cope with the high cost of the diesel used to power the island's generators.

The Works Minister O'Love Jacobsen, says the Government will also look to convert public facilities and will undertake public consultations to find out what the people will embrace and that the methods chosen are compatible.

She says while the emphasis will be on solar power, wind and wave action energy methods will also be looked at.

Mrs Jacobsen says it is an ambitious plan and they will be approaching the European Union and other aid donors.

"We need to start looking now because it is costing us and the people are feeling the pinch. So maybe we could do some things, using solar like we have lots of street lights, we have see tracks with lights and so start with something simple."

Niue's Works Minister, O'Love Jacobsen