As part of the Green Future project funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV), the first phase was successfully completed ahead of schedule in early April 2025. Smart meters were installed at three pilot sites on Rarotonga to collect real-time data, providing the foundation for a solar and green hydrogen system tailored to actual energy needs. This data-driven approach will support the development of a reference project for off-grid energy solutions across the Pacific.
From 24 March to 4 April 2025, Iris Heinz, Head of DEinternational Projects and Services at AHK New Zealand, visited Rarotonga to coordinate the first phase of the project Green Future: Off-grid Solar and Hydrogen Energy, funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV). This initial phase—including the installation of smart meters and stakeholder engagement—was successfully completed ahead of schedule.
The project aims to identify viable pathways for reducing the island’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. With all fuel brought in from abroad, the Cook Islands are highly exposed to global supply chain risks and price volatility. Electricity costs are among the highest in the world, placing considerable strain on both households and businesses. By exploring decentralised renewable solutions, the project contributes to long-term energy resilience and climate protection.
During the visit, smart meters were installed at three key sites—Kent Community Hall, Titikaveka College, and the Motu Beachfront Art Villas. The focus in this phase is on analysing real-time electricity consumption at each site. The collected energy data will be used to model a system that combines solar electricity generation with green hydrogen production and storage – designed to reliably supply all three project partners with energy. The planned installation will serve as a scalable reference project for similar off-grid applications in the Pacific region.
Interview with Iris Heinz on Cook Island TV
Stakeholder engagement was a central element of the visit. Meetings with community leaders, the local energy provider, government agencies, and the local MP confirmed broad support for the project and highlighted the importance of community ownership for long-term success. A highlight was a presentation at a local primary school, where students were introduced to the principles of renewable energy through familiar examples such as sunlight and wind – sparking great interest and enthusiasm.
The first results already show practical benefits. At Titikaveka College, unusually high electricity usage during the night led to the discovery of a continuously running water pump caused by a leak—resulting in immediate energy and water savings. Additionally, initial data from both the college and the community hall indicated lower-than-expected electricity demand, underlining the value of precise monitoring for future system planning.
To further support the modelling process, the installation of a local weather station is recommended. Although a station exists on the northern side of the island, a central mountain range causes significant variation in weather conditions. Site-specific data on solar radiation and cloud cover will be essential for designing an efficient and reliable energy system.
We look forward to sharing further updates as this promising project advances toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Rarotonga.
