How Tokelau Is Harnessing Sunlight For A Sustainable Future

From Fossil Fuel Dependency to Energy Independence: New Zealand’s Satellite Country’s Long Journey to a Renewable Energy Model.

In the Pacific Ocean, halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, Tokelau is a remote island nation made up of three atolls (Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo) covering a total area of ​​approximately 10 square kilometres and home to 1,411 New Zealanders. Despite its small size and geographical isolation, Tokelau has achieved a remarkable feat: it became one of the first countries in the world – and the first in history – to meet almost all of its energy needs with solar power.
Until a few years ago, Tokelau relied entirely on diesel generators to generate electricity, consuming around 200 litres of fuel per day per atoll, or more than 2,000 barrels of diesel per year. This reliance not only burdens the island nation’s economy, but also poses significant environmental risks, given the risks associated with transporting and storing the fuel in fragile ecosystems.

A very ambitious project of the New Zealand Aid Programme

A turning point came in 2012 with the launch of the Tokelau Renewable Energy Project, funded by New Zealand Aid and implemented by New Zealand company PowerSmart Solar. The project involves the installation of 4,032 photovoltaic panels, 392 inverters and 1,344 batteries distributed across three atolls, with a total capacity of about 1 megawatt. The system is designed to meet 150 percent of Tokelau’s current energy needs, as well as creating reserves for future needs.
Secondly, Joseph Mayhew , Development Manager for New Zealand Aid,

“Each installed system represents one of the world’s largest autonomous solar power plants, capable of providing a stable supply even in the most challenging climate conditions.”

Logistics and environmental challenges between barges and the vast ocean

A project of this scale in one of the most remote regions of the world presents significant logistical challenges.
The three atolls, known as the Union Islands until 1946, are not only far from the rest of the world, but also from each other: the distance between Nukunonu and Atafu is 92 km, and between Nukunonu and Fakaofo is 64 km.

The islands of Tokelau, which were included under that name on the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories in 1976, have no airport or seaport; the only way to reach the island is by sea. The journey from Samoa takes more than 24 hours, followed by a barge ride across the coral reef surrounding the atoll. This situation requires careful planning and the implementation of robust technological solutions that can withstand the extreme climatic conditions of the Pacific Ocean.

Mike Bassett Smith of PowerSmart Solar stresses the importance of designing a system that is appropriate for the specific context:

 “This system is one of the largest stand-alone solar installations in the world and the largest solar farm under construction in the South Pacific.”

The goal is to create a robust infrastructure that can withstand salt corrosion, strong winds and high temperatures in the region.

A great example for other Pacific island states

Tokelau’s energy transition is an inspiring model for many other Pacific island nations that often face high energy costs and vulnerability to climate change. By reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, these communities can not only increase their economic resilience, but also make a significant contribution to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
According to a report by the Pacific Energy Summit,

“Almost all Pacific island countries rely heavily on fossil fuel imports, the costs of which often exceed export revenues.”

Tokelau’s example shows that alternative renewable energy sources are possible and affordable.
Other islands have followed suit. In Tonga, for example, the Maama Mai Solar Farm project has reduced diesel consumption by approximately 470,000 litres per year, reducing CO2 emissions by more than 2,000 tonnes.

The Future of Photovoltaic Systems in the Context of… Lack of Resources

More than a decade after the project was completed, Tokelau continues to benefit from his vision. Solar energy generated by large photovoltaic fields not only provides a reliable and sustainable electricity supply, but also opens the way to new economic and social opportunities for the island’s residents.

“The feedback from the community has been very positive,”

Mayhew went on to say.

“The people of Tokelau are proud of this landmark achievement and their energy independence.”

The experience of this remote island, whose only link to the motherland is a New Zealand passport, is a concrete example of how the energy transition can be successfully implemented even in difficult geographical conditions. With a combination of political vision, technical support and targeted investment, other island nations could soon follow the example of this small Pacific island nation.
The story of Tokelau and the former Union Islands reminds us that geographic size and resource limitations do not have to be barriers to innovation and sustainable development. Instead, with a clear vision and collective commitment, even the smallest communities can become beacons of positive change, lighting the way to a greener and more sustainable future.