Potential assessment in the South Passific

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1 July 1994

An Australian-funded two-year study to assess the potential of wind power for electricity generation in the South Pacific has been commissioned by the South Pacific Forum's Energy Division. The A$140,000 study will be undertaken by Melbourne firm Environmet and directed by meteorologist Ian Piggins. Wind speed and direction at a height of ten metres will be monitored in Fiji, Niue, Tonga, Vanuatu and Cook Islands. Currently, wind power is used for electricity generation on the island of Lifou in New Caledonia where an American wind plant from Kenetech is installed. Piggins' report at the end of 1996 will be used to assess new wind projects.