Critical analysis of renewable energy developments (Photovoltaic Systems): Fiji Islands

Arieta Meru Lutunauca Gonelevu

The developments of renewable based technologies in developing countries have always been plagued with challenges and problems. Fiji is no exception as it puts to the test the "fee for service" model for solar home systems (SHS) to provide energy services to the rural areas since 2000. Given the geographical and remote locations of some of Fiji's rural areas, SHS remains the best renewable option for rural electrification. This research hopes to highlight some options available in improving the management and operation of SHS projects in Fiji's rural areas. This study is based on a critical analysis carried out on the renewable energy developments (photovoltaic systems) in Fiji. This involved a field research that was undertaken in twelve rural communities that were installed with SHS under the "fee for service" model. Other relevant stakeholders such as Government Ministries, private companies, regional organizations and consultants were interviewed for this study. The critical analysis carried out on the research data highlighted barriers, gaps and unsustainable practices that existed in the rural based SHS projects that were visited. Some of the issues that were raised were the poor maintenance services provided by the private companies, incomplete installations and not following specifications, lack of project management and coordination skills by the Government (Department of Energy). Furthermore, a desktop research was also undertaken to look at other developing countries such as Kenya, Argentina, India to name a few that have similar background in renewable energy developments. Recommendations were then put forward to address the outstanding issues highlighted in the study. They were based on lessons learnt from other developing countries, suggestions and ideas put forward by those that were interviewed for the study and basic improvements to some of the current practices. In spite of the challenges Fiji faces in the developments of renewable energy based technologies; it continues to forge ahead in trying to provide a reliable energy service to its rural communities.

Critical analysis of renewable energy developments (Photovoltaic Systems): Fiji Islands

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