When did Palau launch its first solar and battery energy storage system?

Palau on June 3 launched its first solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) project on Friday. The project was made possible by Renewable company Alternergy Holdings Corp. and its subsidiary Solar Pacific Energy Corporation.

What is the Palau solar battery project?

The Palau Solar Battery Project will be the largest such project in the Western Pacific. It will lessen Palau’s imported fuel dependency, a major step towards its ambitious goal of 100%.

How will solar energy be produced in Palau?

Solar electricity will be produced by a hybrid 15.3 MWdc (13.2 MWac) solar photovoltaic (PV) plus 10.2 MWac/12.9 MWh battery energy storage system facility. Extensive safeguards to protect Palau’s pristine environment SPEC did not leave any stone unturned to protect the pristine Palau ecosystem.

How much does Palau solar project cost?

In a press release from the company, it said the Palau solar project boasts a capacity of 15.3 MWp solar PV and 12.9 MWh BESS, making it one of the most significant foreign direct investments in the country. The project cost USD29 million, the venture marks a remarkable milestone for Alternergy.

What is Palau's energy storage system?

energy storage system, was undertaken by Solar Pacific Pristine Power, a privately owned company. The plant will provide approximately 20 per cent of Palau’s power needs, delivering up to 23,000 megawatt hours per year to the grid network, reducing Palau’s reliance on expensive diesel generators.

Does Palau rely on fossil fuels?

As a small island developing state, the Republic of Palau sought to wean itself off its dependence on fossil fuel for power, which accounts for 99.7% of the country’s power generation. To address this issue, Palau invited Solar Pacific Energy Corporation (SPEC), Alternergy’s solar developer, to develop a clean, renewable energy source.