With a capacity of 15.3 MWp solar PV and 12.9 MWh BESS, the project supports Palau's goal of achieving a 45% renewable energy share by 2025. The project's total investment of USD 29 million contributes to Palau's energy independence, clean power generation, carbon emissions reduction, and local employment opportunities.
“The project provided employment to about 300 people during construction,” he said. The Palau Solar PV + BESS project, with a capacity of 15.3 MWp solar PV and 12.9 MWh BESS, is one of the biggest foreign direct investments in the country with a total project cost of USD29 million.
Alternergy Holdings Corp. and its subsidiary Solar Pacific Energy Corporation have inaugurated Palau's first solar PV + battery energy storage system (BESS) project, marking a significant milestone in the region.
In March 2024, PPUC acquired energy from Palau’s first commercial Independent Power Producer (IPP), a solar company. This allowed them to replace two diesel generators with solar power. While a positive step towards renewable energy goals, the IPP system currently lacks battery storage, limiting its ability to maximise excess energy.
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.
The Palau solar and battery storage project not only bolsters the country’s energy independence but also highlights the potential for renewable energy to power nations across the Pacific. As Palau paves the way, it inspires others to follow suit, driving the transition towards a greener and more sustainable world.