ALM UNDP

Summary:

The expected main outcome of the Project is that the wind energy potential on one of the already identified ‘hot spots’ for a wind farm in Rarotonga has been assessed. A secondary expected outcome is for capacity at the Energy Diviion, TAU and other main stakeholders in assessing wind energy resources to have been built. An active role of the Energy Division and TAU personnel during the course of the Project is therefore essential. E.g. Energy Division and TAU personnel are to be actively involved in the erecting of the tower so that in the future, they are able to utilise the same or similar equipment on different sites. Furthermore during analysis, and detailed resource assessment, it is envisaged that relevant staff also is actively involved so that in the future they can carry out their own analysis with minimum external assistance. If the findings concerning the site-specific wind resource potential are positive, i.e. if the previous estimations made as part of the FED commissioned feasibility study from 1997/1998, then the planned next step will be the implementation of wind energy project for Rarotonga. The other components required for the preparation of such a wind project will be supported and funded via the SOPAC/UNDP/Government of Denmark Pacific Islands Energy Policy and Strategic Action Planning (PIEPSAP) project assistance to the Cook Islands Thus this Project is parallel funding a required step in the preparation of such wind project for Rarotonga.