10 Jun 2013

Cook Islands ready to launch solar electricity project

5:16 am on 10 June 2013

The Cook Islands government says it is now ready to embark on its renewable energy project, thanks to a further funding approval.

The project will provide a 24-hour supply of electricity to the communities through the installation of solar photovoltaic mini-grid systems on the most vulnerable and isolated islands.

The Government says the project will boost significant development opportunities for the inhabitants of Pukapuka and Nassau.

The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat's Secretary-General, Tuiloma Neroni Slade, commended the government's efforts and said the initiative will minimise reliance on the use of diesel fuel in electricity generation, which in turn will cut costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The funding is a commitment by the Government of Japan to provide 66 million US dollars to Forum Island Countries to tackle environmental issues.