Generating sustainable energy from wind for this island nation
Islands of the Pacific Ocean like New Caledonia face serious environmental and socioeconomic pressures that are exacerbated by climate change. Pacific Island nations are already severely affected by extreme weather and climate variability, and their inhabitants are amongst the world's most vulnerable communities to the growing effects of climate change. Yet in New Caledonia, 80% of energy demands are met by fossil fuel power plants.
generated on average annually, providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels
created for the maintenance and operation of the project, most filled by island nationals
shared with the region, contributing to the development of New Caledonia’s wind energy sector
mitigated on average annually
Prony Wind Power involves six wind farms located at two different sites on the island of New Caledonia that supply electricity to the local grid. The Kafeate and Prony sites consist of 116 wind turbines with a total capacity of 31 MW, with an estimated yearly production of 40 GWh of emissions-free, renewable electricity.
By displacing greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel power plants with renewable electricity, Prony Wind Power is helping to drive the clean energy transition in regions where there are not the resource to do so. The project has also boosted local economies by creating job opportunities both in building the wind farm and also running it. It has also spreading technological know-how and awareness of climate issues across the island. Prony’s success is a tribute the viability and value of sustainable development in small island nations, promoting climate action, and ultimately increasing climate resilience in the Pacific Island region.
