More clean energy, less dependence on imported fossil fuels
The project "Green Future: Decentralised Solar and Hydrogen Energy for Rarotonga, Cook Islands" is an important step not only towards a greener future for Rarotonga and the Cook Islands overall, but also towards reducing the island’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. By reducing the tourism sector’s carbon footprint and empowering local stakeholders to take ownership, this pilot project has strong potential to serve as a model for the entire region.
Funded by the Bundesministerium für Umwelt, Naturschutz, nukleare Sicherheit und Verbraucherschutz (BMUV) under the Environmental Protection Export Initiative (EXI), the project is led by the AHK Neuseeland in close cooperation with local partners including Titikaveka College, Kent Community Hall, and the Motu Beachfront Art Villas.
TV Report on Cook Island TV: Green Hydrogen for Pacific Islands - Rarotonga
What makes this project special?
Smart meters are installed at the three participating sites to measure actual energy consumption. This data guides the design of the off-grid system, which combines solar power for immediate electricity use with green hydrogen production and storage.
The stored hydrogen ensures electricity supply at night and during cloudy periods. To engage students, teachers, and the broader community, workshops on climate protection, energy consumption, and renewable energy generation are conducted. The German-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce also collaborates closely with local ministries, utilities, and other key stakeholders.
The insights gathered will feed into a feasibility study and the creation of a scalable model for future renewable energy projects in the Cook Islands.
