Greening and sustainable energy approach applied for Balearic Islands and Fiji Islands: a comparative study

Abstract

Renewable energy sources are expanding around the world, with significative results in the electricity generation sector. Despite this, the share of renewable energy sources in small islands is very low, except in rare cases. In this context, the paper analyses the energy mix currently used to produce electricity in the Balearic Islands and the Fiji Islands. These two archipelagos show several differences but have in common the strong energy dependence from fossil fuels. In order to increase the energy sustainability of small islands, a preliminary energy assessment is realized, using climate data collected from GIS-tools and introducing a numerical approach. As target, the Authors considers satisfying the major part of the prevision of electrical energy demand by 2025, compatibly with the electrical request and proposing a renewable energy mix based on wind, solar and sea wave. The last source represents a new entry in the renewable energy sector, so for its use an innovative technology is presented. The device is at the design step by the Department of Energy of the Palermo University. Thanks to the cooperation with the University of South Pacific, the paper suggests the installation of a sustainable renewable energy mix to supply the Balearic Islands and Fiji Islands, evaluating the potential environmental benefits.