Are small island energy companies able to develop storage systems?

Small island energy companies do not typically have the research or engineering capability to internally assess the viability of storage projects. Small island power companies find it difficult to raise the required finance for implementation of storage systems. Project costs here can be very significant relative to the scale of the system.

Are Islands a good location for new energy technologies?

However, islands are found to be excellent locations for pilot projects on new energy technologies due to their inherent advantages of small size and vertical integration of local power companies. Furthermore, strong communities imply that it is easier to engage with end consumers when promoting new concepts for electricity supply. 1. Introduction

What challenges do Island power systems face in the future?

Islanded power systems face unique challenges in the future in environmental, economic and social sustainability. Their high reliance on oil-fired generation leads to a carbon intensive power generation profile and consequently high costs to final energy consumers, hindering the economic development of islands.

Are island power systems underutilised?

As considered above, island power systems are typically characterised by a high ratio of total installed capacity over peak load and a low capacity factor as noted in Section 4.2. The consequence of this is a relatively underutilised generation system.

Why are island energy systems important?

Islands have often been given insufficient attention as a location for implementing innovative energy technologies . Island energy systems differ in important ways from large interconnected energy systems both in systemic terms as well as in how they are represented in regulation.

Why should Islands adopt energy innovations?

Early adoption of energy innovations, including renewable energy and battery storage, has been a natural step for islands not least because it provides solutions to their struggle to secure energy supply and reduce production costs.