CHALLENGES OF GEOTHERMAL DEVELOPMENT IN SMALL ISLAND DEVELOPING STATES (SIDS)

Abstract

Driven by all the competing factors of sustainable development, the Governments of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are looking to renewable energy as a way of meeting their climate change obligations whilst simultaneously developing the economy
and improving social outcomes. Typically, these islands rely on imported diesel fuel for power generation resulting in high power prices, proving to be a drain on foreign capital, and making a significant contribution to their annual carbon emissions (from both
transportation and consumption of the fuel).
Globally, there are many Small Island Developing States with geothermal energy potential, from the Pacific (Vanuatu, Solomon Islands) to the Eastern Caribbean (Dominica, St Lucia, St Vincent, Grenada), outer islands of Indonesia and coastal Africa (Comoros).
A small geothermal project (e.g., 10MW) holds the potential to transform a small nation and supply much of the country’s power needs from an indigenous, low carbon, a renewable resource. Whilst some renewable energy options are cheaper, faster and easier
to implement, the geothermal promise remains enticing and a key component of transforming a nation to be 100% renewable in the most reliable and affordable way.
The Governments of Small Island Developing States have recognised the potential of geothermal energy and utilised various approaches to attract public and private sector support to realise the geothermal promise. The New Zealand Aid Programme and
many other donors have provided technical, legal and financial assistance to partner governments, yet to date, an operating geothermal power plant remains elusive. In this paper, we discuss the unique challenges that geothermal developments encounter in Small Island Developing States and approaches to overcome these.