octa sustainable energy workshop 9-10 december 2019 · 2020-05-05 · 7 octa sustainable energy...
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ASSOCIATION OF THE OVERSEAS COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
PAYS ET TERRITOIRES D’OUTRE-MERLANDEN EN GEBIEDEN OVERZEE
OVERSØISKE LANDE OG TERRITORIER
OCTA Sustainable Energy Workshop
9-10 December 2019REPORT
This report has been prepared by the Secretariat of the Overseas Countries and Territories Association which is co-funded by the European Union. The findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this document are those of the author alone and should in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Commission or the Overseas Countries and Territories.
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TABLE OF CONTENTSABBREVIATIONS LIST EXECUTIVE SUMMARYAGENDA INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKSHOP The workshop: organisation and participation INTRODUCTION SESSION Welcome remarks
Henco Cecilia, acting EU representative of Curaçao, on behalf of the OCTA Chair
Pablo Lopez-Herrerias, OCTA Secretary Coordinator, on behalf of Olivier Gaston, President of the
Executive Committee of OCTA
Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment Officer, OCTA Secretariat
Insularity and sustainable development. Emerging challenges for energy, tourism and mobility
Professor Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete
The EU’s sustainable energy cooperation. How does it work and how can OCTs get involved? William
Lindberg, Policy Officer in Sustainable Energy and Climate Change, DG DEVCO, European Commission
SESSION 1 – SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TRANSITION PLANS IN OCTs Saba’s energy strategies. Menno Van der Velde, Senior Policy Advisor, Saba
Energy Pluriannual Programme in Wallis and Futuna. Falakika Taofifenua, Deputy Head of European
Affairs Service, Wallis and Futuna
Clean Energy for EU Islands. Jeppe Mikel Jensen, Project Coordinator of the initiative
SESSION 2 – DEPLOYMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGIES Renewable energy in the Pacific islands’ region. Olivier Auguin, Strategy-Partnership Adviser, SPC
(Secretariat of the Pacific Community) EU Support to clean energy on islands. Matthieu Ballu, Policy Officer, DG ENER, European
Commission
Photovoltaic deployment and example from Lifou island (100% energy independent by 2020) in New
Caledonia. André Boudart, Director, Caledonian Agency for Energy
From production to distribution. Edsel Winklaar, Manager Business Unit Electricity WEB Bonaire &
Harvey de Mey, Electrical Support Engineer, WEB Bonaire
SESSION 3 – CLEAN TECHNOLOGIES AND CLEAN ENERGY SECTORS SWAC – Sea Water Air Conditioning. Samy Hamdy, Technical Advisors, Ministry of Energy and
Digitalisation, French Polynesia
Solar energy integration in St Eustatius. Fred Cuvalay, CEO Energy and Water Company STUCO, St
Eustatius
Energy transition in the refinery sector. Henco Cecilia, Acting EU Representative, Curaçao Clean technologies and business models. Robert-Jan Moons, Project Manager, TNO Caribbean, Aruba
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ASSOCIATION OF THE OVERSEAS COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
SESSION 4 – MEASURING PROGRESS ON ENERGY TRANSITION ROADMAPS Ramon Wessel, expert in energy and environment, COWI
SESSION 5 – COLLABORATIONS AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES European funding initiatives (e.g. H2020, LIFE, EUSEW). Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment
Officer, OCTA Secretariat
EDF Caribbean programme on sustainable energy. Patrick Drijvers, Distribution Manager, Planning
and Engineering Execution, NV GEBE, Sint Maarten
SESSION 6 – CLIMATE CHANGE, IMPACTS ON ENERGY SYSTEMS AND MITIGATION MEASURES EU policy on climate change adaptation in the Energy Sector. Andras Toth, Policy Officer, Adaptation
Unit, DG CLIMA, European Commission Greening of the transportation system. Kenrick Burke, Director of Energy, Government, Montserrat
Photovoltaic deployment and example from Lifou island (100% energy independent by 2020) in New
Intervention on the importance of committing to reducing GHG emissions in OCTs also in view of
accessing climate finance. Robert-Jan Moons, Project Manager, TNO Caribbean, Aruba
SESSION 7 – EXPLOITATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING Smart Community in Aruba. Robert-Jan Moons, Project Manager, TNO Caribbean, Aruba
Examples from energy communities in the EU. Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete
CONCLUSION: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE ENERGY-RELATED ACTIVITIES AND CLOSING REMARKS Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment Officer at the OCTA Secretariat Prof. Theocharis
Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ASSOCIATION OF THE OVERSEAS COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
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ABBREVIATIONS LIST
ACP
ARES
COP25
DG CLIMA
DG DEVCO
DG ENER
DG MARE
EDF
EEA
EMFF
EPP
ERDF
EU
EUSEW
GHG
IFIs
IPCC
IPP
IRENA
MFF
MS
NECP
OCTA
OCTs
PPA
PV
RED II
RES
SDGs
SIDS
SMEs
TAAF
SWAC
African, Caribbean and Pacific group of states
Aruba Renewable Energy Strategy
Conference of the Parties 25 - UN Climate Change Conference
Directorate-General for Climate Action, European Commission
Directorate-General for International Cooperation and Development, European Commission
Directorate-General for Energy, European Commission
Directorate General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, European Commission
European Development Fund
European Environment Agency
European Maritime Fisheries Fund
Energy Pluriannual Programme
European Regional Development Fund
European Union
EU Sustainable Energy Week
Green House Gases
International Financial Institutions
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Independent Power Producer
International Renewable Energy Agency
Multiannual Financial Framework of the European Union
Member States
National Energy and Climate Plan
Overseas Countries and Territories Association
Overseas Countries and Territories
Power Purchase Agreements
Photovoltaics
Renewable Energy Directive II 2018/2001
Renewable Energy Sources
SustainableDevelopment Goals
Small Island Developing States
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
Terres Australes et Antarctiques Françaises – French Southern and Atlantic Lands
Sea Water Air Conditioning
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As islands, the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) face several common energy challenges. Climate change makes them extremely vulnerable to sea-level rise, temperature fluctuations and extreme weather events, such as increased exposure to floods and hurricanes. Moreover, OCTs have specific needs and challenges as regards the supply, distribution, storage and use of energy. Their geographical location makes them particularly dependent on imports of energy sources, which are mostly fossil fuels.
In a scenario of increasing scarce resources, climate change and growing energy needs, OCTs have recognized the importance of becoming more energy independent. They want to become part of the solution, notably by completing a transition towards renewable energy. OCTs have an enormous potential for achieving such a transition, thanks to their rich natural resources and potential for the deployment of further renewable energy assets.
OCTA’s workshop on renewable energy served as a platform for OCT representatives and energy experts to share best practices and experiences in the promotion of sustainable energy in the Overseas Countries and Territories. Participants had the chance to interact with EU officials and learn about opportunities for collaboration and funding with and across the EU.
Discussions focused on several aspects related to renewable energy, such as technological innovation, deployment, access to funding and partnerships, capacity building, energy communities and energy behavior, climate change impacts and their respective adaptation-mitigation measures. Participants shared expertise and recommendations, which were ultimately collected in a list to serve as a guide for future energy-related debates and events. Among the priorities and recommendations mentioned, access to finance and funding remains fundamental to foster the energy transition. It is also important to involve all stakeholders at all levels, aligning energy narratives with practical actions and empowering individuals to act. International partnerships and collaborations are essential, as they provide an opportunity for sharing expertise and technological innovation. The potential of digitalization, also in relation to sustainable mobility, should be exploited; efforts could be undertaken to ensure the development of energy communities and the emergence of individual prosumers.
The workshop has shown that OCTs are already joining the green transition and have made binding commitments for the further deployment of renewable energy on their islands. OCTs are willing to promote RES and adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change affecting their territories. They are, in other words, key partners for the EU and its Green Deal, the private sector and other energy stakeholders in the implementation of the sustainable energy transition. In conclusion, OCTs want to be role models for the adoption and implementation of innovative and efficient climate and environmental measures.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
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AGENDA
DAY 1 – Monday 9 December
OCTA Sustainable Energy WorkshopBrussels, 9-10 December 2019
9:00 – 9:30
9:30 – 10:15
11:45 – 13:00
10:15 – 11:15
14:15 – 15:45
16:15 – 17:00
11:15 – 11:45
13:00 – 14:15
15:45 – 16:15
17:00 – 18:30
Welcome coffee / Registration
Introduction session
Session2 - Deployment of renewable energies
Session 3 - Clean technologies and Clean energy sectors
Session 4 - Measuring progresses on energy transition Roadmaps
Session 1 - Sustainable Energy transition plans in OCTs
Coffee break
Lunch
Coffee break
Networking cocktail
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Welcome by Henco Cecilia on behalf of OCTA Chair; Olivier Gaston, President of the Executive Committee of OCTA and Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment officer, OCTA secretariatInsularity and sustainable development. Emerging challenges for energy, tourism and mobility, Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of CreteThe EU’s sustainable energy cooperation. How does it work and how can OCTs get involved? William Lindberg, Policy Officer in Sustainable Energy and Climate Change, Directorate-General for International Cooperation and Development, European Commission
Renewable energy in the pacific island’s region, Olivier Auguin, Strategy-Partnership Adviser, SPC (Secretariat of the Pacific Community)EU support to clean energy on islands, Matthieu Ballu, Policy Officer, Directorate-General for Energy, European CommissionPhotovoltaic deployment and example of Lifou Island (100% renewable energy) in New Caledonia, André Boudart, Director, Caledonian Agency for EnergyFrom production to distribution, Edsel Winklaar, Manager Business Unit Electricity, WEB Bonaire and Harvey de Mey, Electrical Support Engineer, Web BonaireQ&A session
SWACs, Samy Hamdi, Technical advisor, Ministry of Energy and Digitalisation, French PolynesiaSolar energy integration in St. Eustatius, Fred Cuvalay, CEO Energy and Water Company (STUCO), St. EustatiusEnergy transition in the refinery sector, Henco Cecilia, Acting EU representative, CuraçaoClean technologies and business models, Robert-Jan Moons, Project manager, TNO Caribbean, ArubaQ&A session
Ramon Wessel, Expert in Energy and Environment, COWIQ&A session
Saba’senergyStrategies, Menno Van der Velde, Senior PolicyAdvisor, SabaEnergy Pluriannual programme in Wallis and Futuna, Falakika Taofifenua, Deputy Head of European affairs service, Wallis and FutunaClean Energy for EU Islands, Jeppe Mikel Jensen, Project Coordinator of the initiativeQ&A session
The workshop is moderated by Professor TheocharisTsoutsos, Director, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Lab, School of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete
AGENDA
Day 2 – Tuesday 10 December
9:00 – 9:30
10:40 – 10:50
12:30 – 14:00
9:30 – 10:40
10:50 – 12:30
14:00 – 15:00
15:00 – 16:00
Welcome coffee
Coffee break
Lunch
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OCTA Sustainable Energy WorkshopBrussels, 9-10 December 2019
Session 5 - Collaborations and funding opportunities
Session 6 - Climate change, impacts on energy systems and mitigation measures
Session 7 - Exploitation and Capacity building
Recommendations for the Energy Summit and closing remarks
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European funding and initiatives (H2020, LIFE, EUSEW, etc.), Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment officer, OCTA secretariatEDF Caribbean programme on sustainable energy, Patrick Drijvers, Distribution Manager, Planning and Engineering and Execution, NV GEE, Sint MaartenQ&A session
EU Policy on Climate Change Adaptation in the Energy Sector, Andras Toth, Policy Officer, Adaptation Unit, Directorate-General for Climate Action, European CommissionGreening of the transportation system, Kenrick Burke, Director of Energy, Government, MontserratQ&A session
Smart Community in Aruba, Robert-Jan Moons, Project manager, TNO Caribbean, ArubaExamples from energy communities in EU, Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete
Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment Officer, OCTA secretariatand Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete
INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKSHOP
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1Sustainable Energy Roadmap for OCTs, 2015,
http://www.octassociation.org/IMG/pdf/4._signed_sustainable_energy_roadmap_for_octs.pdf
On the 9th and 10th of December 2019, the Overseas Countries and Territories Association (OCTA) held a workshop on Renewable Energy. More than thirty participants from fourteen Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) attended the event in Brussels, having the chance to discuss and engage in conversation with technical experts coming from the European Commission, OCTs and other key organisations on topics related to energy and sustainability.
OCTA is the Association of Overseas Countries and Territories of the European Union. Counting 22 members, including inhabited OCTs and TAAF (French Southern and Atlantic Lands), OCTA’s vision is to promote the sustainable development of OCTs, protecting their natural environment and advancing their economic and human development through cooperation with the EU as well as with regional and global partners.One of the priorities of OCTs is to show worldwide leadership towards a reliable and affordable transition of energy systems to fossil fuels independence . As marine territories, climate change poses several growing challenges for OCTs, which include increased exposure to floods, hurricanes and rising sea levels. Moreover, OCTs have specific needs and challenges as regards the supply, distribution, storage and use of energy. Their geographic situation sets them apart and makes them particularly dependent on imports of natural resources, especially fossil fuels. In the context of increasing scarce resources, climate change and growing energy needs, it is essential that OCTs become more energy self-reliant, notably by completing a transition to renewable sources and technologies.
OCTs hold a great potential for promoting and achieving a clean energy transition. Given their rich natural and renewable assets such as solar, wind, thermal, hydro and marine resources, OCTs could become energy self-reliant and fully functioning on renewable energy sources. There is ample scope for stimulating stakeholder collaboration, building capacities, creating markets, boosting demand for green energy and attracting investors. Citizens, local businesses and authorities cancontribute to developing sustainable energy systems, creating examples of “energy communities”. Isolated energy systems can play a key role in the development of smart grid technologies and innovations to overcome the challenges due to intermittent supply. In short, OCTs are ideal test labs to develop and implement renewable energy technologies, serving as energy transition models for larger territories.
OCTs can benefit from renewable energy in many ways. Implementing renewable energy solutions can lead to job creation, additional business opportunities, lower GHG emissions, cleaner air, improved health and better protection of the insular environment and its rich biodiversity. Moreover, renewable energies can boost the islands’ economic self-sufficiency, drastically reducing their expenditures on energy imports. Given the abundance of natural resources, OCTs can promote themselves as centres of excellence in the field of sustainable energy, strengthening their partnerships with the EU, private investors and energy stakeholders as regards the promotion of a sustainable, green transition.
The workshop: organisation and participation
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The aim of the workshop was to unblock this a potential by bringing together technical experts to discuss, share expertise, best-practices and experiences; propose solutions to common challenges and strengthen a common vision,in order to accelerate a reliable and affordable transition towards greener energy on the islands. The workshop also allowed experts from OCTs to present some of the initiatives that have been implemented in response to the Energy Roadmap of the OCTs signed in 2015 . Such a Roadmap identified a series of sustainable energy priorities and objectives for the promotion of sustainable energy in OCTs. At the end of the workshop, participants proposed a set of recommendations to pave the way for future policy developments and further discussion at upcoming energy-related events. These recommendations demonstrate the OCTs’ willingness to accelerate their green and sustainable energy transition.
This workshop comes at an important time, right after COP25 and right before the presentation of the EU Green Deal by the European Commission. The Deal is a most ambitious package of measures to enable European citizens and businesses to benefit from sustainable green transition. Efforts at fighting climate change and promoting RES (Renewable Energy Sources) also aim at advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussions of OCTA’s Renewable Energy Workshop took into account this overall framework and sought to provide an added value to the ongoing discussions.
The Sustainable Energy Workshop was organised by the Executive Committee of OCTA and lead by Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten with the collaboration of the OCTA Secretariat.
The workshop was a remarkable success, being attended by more than thirty energy specialists from fourteen OCTs and by numerousexperts from the European Commission. Attendees from the OCTs included government officials and representatives, managers of utility companies, engineers, energy experts, and officers, among others.Experts from the European Commission’s DG DEVCO, DG ENER and DG CLIMA shared expertise on EU policies, programmes and initiatives related to sustainable energy.The workshop also benefitted from the moderation of a very experienced professional on renewable energy in islands, Professor TheocharisTsoutsos, Director of the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Lab at the School of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete.
The workshop was divided into seven sessions, each dealing with a specific topic, carefully selected for its relevance to sustainable energy.
Session 1: sustainable energy transition plans in OCTsSession 2: deployment of renewable energiesSession 3: clean technologies and clean energy sectorsSession 4: measuring progress on energy transition RoadmapsSession 5: collaborations and funding opportunitiesSession 6: climate change, impacts on energy systems and mitigation measuresSession 7: exploitation and capacity building
2http://www.octassociation.org/IMG/pdf/4._signed_sustainable_energy_roadmap_for_octs.pdf
The workshop on Renewable Energy commenced with an introductory session, where the hosts welcomed the participants, explained the overall objectives of the conference and prepared the ground for discussion.
INTRODUCTION SESSION
Welcome remarks.Henco Cecilia, acting EU representative of Curaçao, on behalf of the OCTA Chair
Pablo Lopez-Herrerias, OCTA Secretariat Coordinator, on behalf of Olivier Gaston, President of the Executive Committee of OCTA
Henco Cecilia delivered the welcome remarks on behalf of OCTA’s chair, H.E. Mr Eugene Rhuggenaath, Prime Minister of Curaçao. He welcomed the attendees and thanked them for their participation in the workshop.
Mr Cecilia stressed the important role that energy plays in Overseas Countries and Territories. Given their geographical position, OCTs have specific energy needs and face common energy challenges. For example, distribution and storage of energy face difficulties on islands. For this reason, it is important that OCTs adopt an intelligent, smart approach that allows new energy policies to fully exploit emerging opportunities. For example, OCTs should make full use of their natural, renewable energy sources, and establish collaborations with each other. OCTs can be the places were innovative technologies are developed and adopted.
Pablo Lopez-Herrerias welcomed the participants and thanked for the support given to OCTs by the European Commission and the OCTA Executive Committee. He spoke on behalf of Olivier Gaston, President of the Executive Committee of OCTA.
Mr Lopez-Herrerias reminded the attendees that the objective of the workshop is to discuss and share experiences, initiatives and expertise on energy-related issues in OCTs. The workshop aims at making an informed contribution to discussions in future energy-related events. The discussions that will emerge in the workshop, he pointed out, will also inform the new OCT strategy for
the period 2021-2027. The strategy will identify the key priorities and actions for OCTs also in terms of sustainable energy, one of the main items on the agenda.
Mr Lopez-Herrerias concluded by highlighting the work that OCTA has been and will be carrying out. Firstly, a study analysing the progresses made by OCTs in their clean energy transitions has been commissioned to COWI, it will be presented in session 4 of this workshop. A study on the blue economy is foreseen and expected to be done in 2020. Secondly, OCTA has been working closely with the European Commission, co-organising a panel with DG MARE at the COP25 in Madrid in early December 2019. The panel was attended by the recently appointed European Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevičius, and by the Minister for Health, Environment and Nature from Curaçao, Madame Suzanne Camelia-Römer, acting as OCTA chair. On this occasion, OCTA presented the Declaration on Oceans signed by OCTs in October 2019 to Virginijus Sinkevičius.
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Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment Officer, OCTA Secretariat
Insularity and sustainable development. Emerging challenges for energy, tourism and mobility Professor Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete.
Claire Kwiatkowski presented the structure of the workshop and its sessions, reminding the participants of the opportunity to share good practices and knowledge in order to deliver a set of recommendations to prepare the ground for future energy discussions.
Ms Kwiatkowski set the direction of the conference by introducing some of the key aspects related to the clean energy transition in Overseas Countries and Territories. In order to implement the energy transition, it is important not only to have clear targets and ambitions, but also to think in terms of integrated energy systems. Renewable energy requires infrastructure and innovative technologies, as well as the creation of positive demand for clean energy. Technology and infrastructure degradation need to be confronted, and citizens need to become part of energy communities as prosumers. New business and societal models can accelerate the green transition.
Professor Theocharis Tsoutsos discussed the emerging challenges to energy, tourism and mobility that islands specifically face.
Islands face a variety of challenges regarding energy, infrastructure and mobility. Managing the expectations of islanders is one of the first challenges they face; inhabitants need high-quality, sustainable environments and solid infrastructure capable to withstand seasonal weather fluctuations. Islands also need efficient energy and space use, together with ambitious sustainable mobility plans. Using means of transport that are efficient, intelligent and based on digital innovation is good for cleaner air, better health and safer roads.
One key instrument to address these challenges is digitalisation. Digitalisation is an enabler of change, offering a plethora of opportunities to boost the energy transition and benefit the economy and the environment of the islands. For example, digitalisation can create innovative business opportunities through disruptive technologies; it allows for major share and availability of information and increased access to resources. Digitalisation presents opportunities for distance monitoring of air and water pollution, or
for monitoring and optimising how energy is distributed and used.
Digitalisation has a key role for the promotion of sustainable mobility. Given the growing mobility needs in islands, it is necessary to increase the sustainability of transport at local levels. Infrastructure needs to be strengthened or created for electric cars, buses, bikes and scooters. For example, zero-energy ports are a potential for smart energy systems, because they provide large energy savings and create the opportunity to sell green energy to incoming vessels and ships. Overall, digitalisation can help advance shared mobility and support the monitoring mechanisms behind it.
Finally, it’s important to highlight the role of energy communities in the green transition. Sustainable and efficient energy systems should include the possibility for individuals to become prosumers and actively participate in the energy exchanges. Changing the energy behaviours of citizens is also another key instrument for unblocking the energy transition.
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Key points:
Exploit the potential offered by digitalizationTake steps in greening mobility Favour the creation of energy communities
The EU’s sustainable energy cooperation. How does it work and how can OCTs get involved? William Lindberg, Policy Officer in Sustainable Energy and Climate Change, DG DEVCO, European Commission
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William Lindberg illustrated how OCTs can cooperate with the European Union to promote sustainable energy. According to article 94 of the Overseas Association Decision of 25 November 2013, natural persons from OCTs, and the relevant public and/or private bodies and institutions in an OCT can be eligible for participation in and funding from Union programmes, including support under programmes of the Union for cooperation with other countries. Hence, there is large scope of cooperation with the European Union.
The objectives underpinning this collaboration are threefold. First, to provide access to energy. The goal of the Union is to grant access to energy to 40 million people. Second, to support renewable energy and energy efficiency, with a goal of 6.5GW of capacity. Third, to fight climate change through emissions reduction. The goal of reducing emissions by 15 million tons a year has already been achieved.
The EU has a clear strategy forthe promotion of cooperation for sustainable energy. First, it promotes ownership through budget support and collaborative actions. Second, it spurs policy reforms through technical assistance and improvements to regulatory frameworks. Third, it provides financial tools to de-risk investments, mainly for SMEs, through different measures, that include blended finance and guarantees.
Mr Lindberg provided a bird’s-eye view on a set of different initiatives that can be accessed by both the public and the private sector in OCTs. With the exclusion of the EU Technical Assistance Facility, the following tools are managed by external stakeholders, who can be contacted directly. Technical assistance is usually delivered faster than financial assistance, which requires a series of technical consultations.
The EU Technical Assistance Facility (EU TAF) aims at improving workforce skills, regulatory and legal frameworks and to promote research and innovation by sharing experts and expertise. OCTs can request the EU Technical Assistance facility through the relevant EU Delegation. Experts are then sent out to the OCT for several activities, which include support to feasibility studies and to the preparation of documents, licenses, training and events. Some OCTs already benefitted from this facility, which conducted a “Desk study on marine energy for Europe’s Overseas Countries and Territories”.
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EDFI ElectriFI – the EU Electrification Financing Initiative invests in early stage private companies and projects offering sustainable energy solutions in emerging markets. Projects focus on new or improved electricity connections and on generation capacity (mainly off-grid), covering various business models including mini-grid, solar home systems, independent power producers, captive power plants, hydro and biomass, among others. Through blending, companies receive funding ranging from €500000 to €10 million.
Climate Investor 1 is a blending initiative that focuses on clean energy in developing countries and covers all stages of a project, from the development to the construction and refinancing of the project.
Get.invest supports project developers that are in the pipeline phase by providing project and business development support (e.g. advisory support and assistance for preparing project documentation), information and matchmaking (e.g. business-to-business), and providing an enabling environment that allows SMEs to access finance.
EDFI Electrifi
https://www.electrifi.eu/
• Objective: increase access to clean energy in developing countries. An EU-funded impact investment facility, financing in early stage private companies and projects, focusing on new/improved electricity connections as well as on generation capacity from sustainable energy sources in emerging markets
• Total overall budget: €215 million
• Funding: between €500,000 and €10 million
• Calls: apply online, no deadline
Climate Investor 1
Get.invest
https://www.climateinvestorone.com/nl/#
https://www.get-invest.eu/
• Objective: a blended finance facility mandated with delivering renewable energy infrastructure
projects in emerging markets by contributing to the entire lifecycle of a project.
• Total overall budget: USD$1.65 billion divided into three funds
• Calls: apply online
• Objective: mobilising investments in decentralised renewable energy projects. It supports private sector business and project developers, financiers and regulators in building sustainable energy markets
• Scope: market information, access to finance, networking and information events
• Calls: enquire and apply online
Menno Van der Velde presented the achievements of Saba’s Energy Strategy 2014-2020 and outlined the main priorities and actions forSaba under the future Energy Strategy 2020-2025.
Saba’s long-term vision is to become 100% sustainable. Sustainability, affordability, energy independence and reliability of the system are the values underpinning Saba’s 2014-2020 energy strategy. The actions undertaken within this framework are manifold. The diesel plant was relocated and modernised, a 2 MWp solar power park was installed (1 MWp with Dutch aid and 1 MWp with the help of the 11th EDF) together with intelligent grid and storage.A geothermal feasibility study was also launched.
These actions have brought many benefits to the islands. Relocation and modernisation of the diesel plant has increased the overall system reliability and reduced fuel consumption by 15%. The share of renewable energy on the island has increased thanks to the PV plant, where 40% of battery storage was installed. The power management system was also installed, configured and linked with fiber-optic cables between solar parks at the airport and power plant/battery storage at the harbour.
Saba’s future energy strategy for 2020-2025 is driven by the value of sustainability. “The greenest watt is the one that doesn’t have to be produced”, said Mr Van der Velde. This means that energy efficiency will be the focus of future energy actions on the island. Hence, Saba will channel its efforts towards the implementation of energy efficiency programmes, the addition of 1 MW wind energy renewable infrastructure, the upgrade of the electricity grid to a “smart grid” which includes energy storage, and the conclusion of the feasibility and testing studies for geothermal energy on the island. Mr Van der Velde highlighted that the revised strategy for 2020-2025 provides for measures that will further approach the ultimate 100% sustainability target.
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Saba’s energy strategies.Menno Van der Velde, Senior PolicyAdvisor, Saba
During this session, experts from Saba and Wallis and Futuna described their islands’ energy strategies and showed the progress achieved in promoting renewable energies. They shared expertise and key recommendations for sustainable energy transition plans in OCTs. The need for financial support for renewable energies was also highlighted. Moreover, the “Clean Energy for EU Islands” initiative was presented. Such an initiative aims at enabling the zero emissions objective on EU islands by 2050.
SESSION 1 – SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TRANSITION PLANS IN OCTs
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Key points and lessons learnt
adopt “baby steps”, i.e. an incremental, smart approachuse maturetechnologies in small islandsuse reliable/independent supervising company for installing new technologiestrain existing energy company staff before, during and after installing new technologies
Mr Van der Velde concluded his presentations by presenting a series of recommendations and lessons learnt.
Q&A
A participant from Montserrat asked further details about the operation of the 2MW solar power plant. Mr Van der Velde replied that the overall cost for the plant was USD $3 million, given that property had to be acquired at market prices and the installation efforts on rocky ground.
Another participant enquired about investments in geothermal energy. Mr Van der Velde believes that geothermal energy is a solution for the long-termand highlighted the need for external support from the EU, the Government and the community to implement it.
Regarding the geothermal feasibility study, Hon. David Colin Owen from Montserrat suggested that islands could pool capacities and resources when conducting feasibility studies.
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Q&A
Energy Pluriannual Programme in Wallis and Futuna.FalakikaTaofifenua, Deputy Head of European Affairs Service, Wallis and Futuna
Falakika Taofifenuas hared information about the Energy Pluriannual Programme in Wallis and Futuna, highlighting the need of funding to unblock projects for renewable energy. The energy code in force in Wallis and Futuna spells out a series of energy objectives for the two islands. First, it mandates the complete alignment of regulated prices between the Territory and mainland France for the sale of electricity by 2020. Second, it sets the objective of reaching 50% share of renewable energy by 2030, and 100% by 2050. Third, it requires that the electricity bought derives from renewable energies.
The Energy Pluriannual Programme (EPP) was elaborated to implement these objectives in March 2017, it specifies the energy policy objectives, identifies the challenges and risks in this area, and guides the work of public actors.Its core areas include the evolution of energy demand and its management, the development of renewable energy, a secure energy supply, distribution and storage, mobility and need for training and energy competences. The validation process of the EPP was
sent to the relevant Environment Authority. A steering committee for the EPP was also set up.
Ms Taofifenua stressed the need for funding in order to implement the EPP. Wallis and Futuna needs energy specialists and funding to carry out a pilot site for electric vehicles, for accompanying energy saving measures and for communication and awareness-raising activities with the population. The islands also need staff training activities for the maintenance of renewable energy equipment.
Next steps. The EPP will be revised in 2020 following recommendations from the Environment Authority. Energy saving measures will be implemented along with the recruitment of specialised personnel in renewable energies. In 2021, the EPP will continue being implemented. However, it is necessary that necessary funding is unblocked.
Key point
Funding is fundamental in order to implement renewable energy projects
A participant asked about the progress of the EPP. Ms Taofifenua replied that since 2016, small actions have been undertaken. She highlighted the importance of receiving funding in order to deploy renewable energy sources.
Vicky Cormier provided an update regarding the EPP of St Pierre et Miquelon, which is currently under revision. According to the provisional EPP, St Pierre et Miquelon aims at using 100% of renewable energy sources in the future. To do so, the island needs to implement actions and build engineering capacity.
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Clean Energy for EU Islands.Jeppe Mikel Jensen, Project Coordinator of the initiative
The “Clean Energy for EU Islands” is an initiative that facilitates the clean energy transition on EU islands with the intention of reaching 0% emissions by 2050. The initiative uses a bottom-up approach that has a “helix” shape – it operates through citizens, academia, businesses and local authorities to reach the 2050 zero emissions objective. The initiative also has experience in the deployment of renewable energy.
Common vision. The initiative aims at ensuring that islands and stakeholders in each island develop a common vision for decarbonisation. The initiative supports the formation of transition teamsmade up of multiple stakeholders, such as municipalities and businesses, who know their role in the energy transition and are ready to takeaction. In this way, a
well-planned transition towards decarbonisation is promoted.
An Islands Transition Handbook has recently been published and provides guidelines for Islands to develop effective clean energy transition agenda.
The Clean Energy for EU Islands therefore builds a network of EU islands to facilitate the energy transition. Islands can sign a pledge showcasing their commitment to decarbonisation and their increased energy ambitions. So far, 10 pledges have been signed, along with more than 100 signatures. External organisations can also show their support or share their understanding of how to implement decarbonisation through a Declaration of Support. The overall initiative has been creating a ripple effect, where other organisations have seen the benefits provided by the Clean Energy for EU Islands and wish to show their support. For example, the Nordic Council of Ministers is working with the initiative for the Fossil Free Islands programme. There is also an interest in the European Commission to expand beyond EU islands and thus include OCTs. Future vision. In the long term, it is foreseen that the initiative will become a self-sufficient network of islands that are able to get in touch with relevant partners and experts through an established network that will work both offline as well as online.
Key points
For a successful clean energy transition in islands, it is important to involve all stakeholders (e.g. municipalities, communities, academia, businesses) and develop a common vision for decarbonisation damental in order to implement renewable energy projects
The Clean Energy for EU Islands has developed support tools: https://euislands.eu/energy-transition-agenda
5https://euislands.eu/document/islands-transition-handbook
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Olivier Auguin discussed about the status, challenges and opportunities for the development of renewable energy in the Pacific region. The Pacific remainsthe most vulnerable to climate change, andhighly dependent on fossil fuels. Nonetheless, it is also the region with the greatest renewable energy potential in the world, thanks to its rich marine, solar and geothermal resources. Solar energy remains the most promising resource of all.
Yet, various challenges hamper the full deployment of renewable energy. Islands have small surfaces which restrict the installation of PVs; geothermal energy remains expensive and electromobility is not exploited due to lack of capacity. To provide solutions to these problems, political willingness is necessary, as well as coordination between islands and smart solutions, such as floating solar panels.
Several programmes are being implemented in Pacific islands. Since 2010, thousands of solar panels have been installed on the islands. Efforts directed at improving energy efficiency have materialised in the form of Pacific Appliance Labelling Standards. Thanks to financing from the EU, 40 systems of biogas have been installed. The Pacific Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency to encourage start-ups has been created, along with the Pacific Regional Data Repository to attract larger investments. Overall, there is a need to provide the facilitating environment for the private sector to invest on renewable energy and energy efficiency. Finally, networks and coordination for capacity building and training, through the share of expertise, have been established also thanks to the EU-funded project “USP/SPC EU PacTVET”.
To promote renewable energy in the Pacific region it is essential to develop networks among islands and focus on innovation through partnerships with research centres. OCTs have a large scope foraction and an important role to play, as they can be models for larger territories in the energy transition.
Renewable energy in the Pacific islands’ region.Olivier Auguin, Strategy-Partnership Adviser, SPC (Secretariat of the Pacific Community)
During this session, participants shared their experiences in deploying renewable energy systems in Overseas Countries and Territories. Renewable projects in Pacific islands were presented, along with examples from the islands of Bonaire and New Caledonia. Attendees also had the chance to learn more about the EU support to clean energy on European islands.
SESSION 2 – DEPLOYMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGIES
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Key points
Develop networks among islands and coordinate efforts for energy transition
Focus on innovation and develop partnership with research centres
Create facilitating environments for private sector investments
Matthieu Ballu discussed about the “Clean Energy for EU Islands Initiative”, which seeks to provide a long-term framework to help islands generate their own sustainable, low-cost energy.
Islands are recognized as potential frontrunners in energy transition. Yet, they face common challenges, such as isolation, limited market size, dependency on external supply of fossil fuels and higher energy costs. They also face seasonal energy consumption fluctuations, limited capacityand difficulties in accessing finance. The EU established the “Clean Energy for EU Islands Initiative” to accelerate the clean energy transition on EU islands, help islands reduce dependency and costs of energy imports by using renewables. It also supports them in embracing modern and innovative energy systems and lowering GHG emissions. The European Union’s Green Deal will provide additional boost to the initiative, by further strengthening the EU’s decarbonisation ambitions while ensuring that the energy transition is just, inclusive and leaves no one behind. This initiative aims at accelerating the clean energy transition on EU islands, helping islands reduce dependency and costs of energy imports by using renewables. It also supports them in embracing modern and innovative energy systems and lowering GHG emissions.
The Clean Energy for EU Islands Initiative helps EU islands in several ways. It has set up an “Island Facility” under Horizon 2020 to finance projects. Regarding political dialogue and coordination, the initiative has an EU Secretariat and works with Islands Association and Liaisons Teams to solve common issues and challenges. Political coordination with EU islands in peripheral and maritime regions is reinforced thanks to islands associations.
Whilst the initiative mainly focuses on EU islands, there is an undergoing discussion regarding the future of the islands’ initiative. Overall, there is a general interest in expanding the initiative to non-EU islands.
The future objective of the initiative is to have a durable framework for decarbonization of the islands, hopefully to be adopted by mid-2020. This framework would lay the foundation for the expansion of the initiative beyond the EU.
EU Support to clean energy on islands.Matthieu Ballu, Policy Officer, DG ENER, European Commission
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André Boudart shared good practices and presented the achievements of New Caledonia’s energy transition, also in relation to the island of Lifou. New Caledonia has an energy transition plan that spans the period 2016-2030. The plan has three main objectives. First, to reduce the final energy consumption in 2030 by an average 25% (excluding mining and the iron & steel industry). Second, to develop renewable energies in order to reach complete autonomy of the public energy distribution in 2030. Third, to reduce GHG emissions by an average of 20%.
The benefits that can be derived from reducing fossil fuel consumption include a cleaner impact on the island, the enhancement of local resources, the contribution to local socio-economic development and the reduction of the island’s energy dependency.
Renewable energy: achievements. New Caledonia decided to push hard on PV energy given the rapid and easy development of the technology, its decreasing price and the presence of good local technical knowledge. Between 2016 and 2018, New Caledonia introduced some statutory instruments to provide incentives for the deployment of renewable energies. In three years, New Caledonia doubled the renewable energy production. Since 2017, the island has installed additional authorized 149 MW of renewable energies for public distribution (103 MW in large PV farms, 19 MW through 1970 rooftop small PV units, and 24 MW through three new facilities on hydraulic, wind and biomass sectors).
The island has clear energy autonomy targets on public distribution: to achieve 84% of overall energy autonomy by 2021 and 100% by 2023. Regarding this later objective, New Caledonia seems to be 7 years ahead of schedule!
New Caledonia’s future plan is to create energy storage facilities, develop control of energy consumption, develop electromobility, green the local nickel metallurgic industry on its energy consumption, and apply renewable energy process to side sectors, such as desalting sea water and public transports.
Mr Boudart also presented the case of the Lifou island, which aims to become 100% energy autonomous by 2020 through implementation of renewable energy sources. The island has received private investments to achieve this objective through a three-year programme. The first phase of the programme increased the production of renewable energy between 2017 and 2018 through the installation of a storage system. Thesecond phase consists inimplementing an additional 2 MWp solar farm and installing 5 MWh of storage facilities. Installation was performed by local companies of Engie in New Caledonia, sub-contractors from Lifou island and EPS Engie Storage and isolated production system specialists from Italia.
Photovoltaic deployment and example from Lifou island (100%energy independentby 2020) in New Caledonia.André Boudart, Director, Caledonian Agency for Energy
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The last phase, to be implemented next year with new investments in PV farms, will allow the island to be totally energy autonomous, 7 years ahead of schedule.
The Lifou island will reap many benefits from becoming 100% energy autonomous. It will save € 120 million thanks to its energy system; it will develop environmental awareness among the population and be a model for the whole of the Pacific area. This objective also favours local companies that have been involved in construction and operation activities, it promotes local partnerships with the local tribes and is an asset for the ecotourism of the island.
Key point
The island of Lifou represents an example on how islands can implement projects to become 100% energy autonomous
Q&A
A participant asked a question on the solar panels that were installed on rooftops. Mr Boudart clarified that the administration service agreed on the installations and allowed for the possibility of consumers to re-sell their energy to the network.
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Edsel Winklaar and Harvey de Mey outlined Bonaire’s energy vision for 2030 focussing on the energy chain, i.e. the production and distribution of energy.
In Bonaire, Contour Global is the single private energy producer, and the Water and Energy Company WEB is the only distributor of energy (and water). WEB is a public entity. Currently, energy production levels reach 40MW of integrated wind and diesel power plant with storage, while energy peak on the island in 2019 was 18MW. The island has about 21000 inhabitants.
Bonaire’s strategy on renewables aims at cutting fuel costs by increasing the share of renewable energies, using the saved money for community investments. Moreover, the strategy makes full use of individuals, since the regulator gives the opportunity to clients to deliver energy back to the grid with decentral generation. Mr Winklaar showed a video of Bonaire’s sustainable future, showcasing the objective to reach 70% of renewable energy share on the island in the next decade.
The energy producer company Contour Global recently installed 9MW of diesel engines in combination with inverters, batteries and energy management systems. This project was awarded a prize for Best Micro Grid Project. New sustainable energy projects with Contour Global include solar and wind energy along with inverters and batteries. Overall, the aim is to pass from a 33% share of renewable energies to 60% in 2020, with parts of the day running 100% on renewables. WEB continues monitoring new developments and innovations in the field of renewable energy, such as hydrogen and algae parks.
From production to distribution.Edsel Winklaar, Manager Business Unit Electricity WEB Bonaire & Harvey de Mey, Electrical Support Engineer,WEB Bonaire
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Sea Water Air Conditioning (SWAC) is an energy technology that allows to use water pumped from the depths of the sea to provide cool climatization to buildings. Pre-requisites include the possibility to pump water from at least 600-700 metres below sea level. Water needs to have constant low temperature.
In tropical islands, climatization consumes about 50% of overall electricity, which mainly comes from fossil fuels and has a high cost. For this reason, installing SWAC technologies can reduce the energy bill for climatization by 70% - 90%, meaning a total reduction on the overall energy bill up to 45%. Installing SWAC systems also allows islands to reduce their dependency on fossil energies and reduce CO2 emissions.
Mr Hamdi shared some information regarding the SWAC systems that have been installed in French Polynesia, namely in Bora Bora and in Tetiaroa. A SWAC project to provide climatization for the Hospital Centre of the French Polynesia is expected to be deliveredin February 2021. Moreover, a feasibility study for a SWAC technology for the urban zone of Papeete was launched and will be finalised in April 2020.
SWAC – Sea Water Air Conditioning.Samy Hamdi, Technical Advisors, Ministry of Energy and Digitalisation, French Polynesia
This session was an opportunity for energy experts to share their experiences with innovative sustainable energy technologies, such as the SWAC system for sustainable climatization and solar PV integration into local insular energy systems. Moreover, plans for the sustainable redevelopment of insular areas were presented. The session was concluded by considering the emerging business models that will underpin the energy paradigms of the future.
SESSION 3 – CLEAN TECHNOLOGIES AND CLEAN ENERGY SECTORS
Key points
The SWAC technology plays a role in reducing the costs of energy up to 45% of the overall energy bill
It reduces dependence on fossil fuels
It reduces CO2 emissions
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The island of St Eustatius has undergone a remarkable energy transformation in the last few years, as it undertook considerable efforts to promote solar energy. In 2014, diesel was the only source of energy in St Eustatius, entailing very high energy costs. Hence, the ministry sought to explore natural resources on the island to produce electricity and mitigate costs. It was decided to proceed with solar energy, as the technology could be resilient to exposure to hurricanes.
St Eustatius’s utility company STUCO was at the centre of the solar energy integration in St Eustatius. The project to install solar energy technology was split into two phases, each to provide 2 MW of solar energy. Proposals for tenders were issued. In the first phase, more than 6,000 panels were installed with an overall capacity of 1.8 MW along with storage batteries. These panels can withstand category-5 hurricanes and have 5 degrees inclination angle. This allowed to save about 1800 litres of diesel and their respective emissions. In the second phase, 2MW of solar power were installed.
The island of St Eustatius provides an example of how renewable energy can facilitate the green transition. It demonstrates that solar power can and does work on a technical level. Thanks to the efforts
undertaken, there was an increase in the share of solar energy on the island. The grid system has become more stable and supplies 100% of the island’s power. Diesel continues giving support to improve the reliability of overall power system on the island. In two years, all technical reservations were dispelled, and solar power fully took over the functionality of power plants. The benefits derived are a greener island, CO2 emissions savings, reduced dependency on external energy sources and retainment of foreign reserves.
Yet, challenges remain, especially regarding financing. Solar power has demonstrated power costs equal or better than other energy sources, but costs for energy storage exceed the cost of other energy sources. Maintaining affordability for customers is a necessity. It is essential that the European Union and Member States lend their support in stimulating green energy in OCTs through subsidies and other financing means. On the other hand, OCTs should support the energy transition with strong energy policies.
Solar energy integration in St Eustatius.Fred Cuvalay, CEO Energy and Water Company STUCO, St Eustatius
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Key points
The island of St Eustatius has taken important efforts in integrating solar energy in its energy systemThe projects undertaken show the feasibility of solar energy technologies and can serve to encourage other OCTs to exploit this type of energy sourceFinancing remains a difficulty. OCTs need to adopt ambitious energy policies
Q&A
A question was raised on the expected life span of batteries. Mr Cuvalay explained that batteries have an expected life of 15 years and warranty is monitored with Samsung.
The island of Curaçao hosts an important refinery that was created more than one hundred years ago– the “Refineria di Korsou”. Currently, there are ambitious plans to re-develop the areas of the refinery along sustainable energy and eco-industrial development terms. One the one hand, a “hybrid” plan aims at transforming parts of the refinery into industrial and commercial areas where green energy is also produced. On the other hand, there is a plan to dismantle the refinery altogether. Overall, the vision statement is to contribute to the economic development of Curaçao, to job creation, forex and GDP.
Both plans foresee the promotion of renewable energies to implement the clean energy transition. An energy system analysis will be undertaken and will evaluate a list of energy efficiency measures and fossil fuel reduction measures. It will also include a decarbonisation and emissions reduction strategy. Moreover, there will be economic analysis of alternative power-to-heat, power-to-hydrogen and power-to-water processes. Projects foreseen include the development of wind and aeolian parks, along with areas for recycling and soil remediation (composting and bio-soil remediation). A smart city is also considered for development, with a business district, an eco-industrial park, start-ups, incubators and accelerators, research facilities and testing labs. Another area will also be dedicated for ships and recreation. The timeline of these plants is 5 to 10 years.
Energy transition in the refinery sector.Henco Cecilia, Acting EU Representative, Curaçao
Key point
Re-development of urban areas in sustainable and renewable terms contributes to the green transition
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Robert-Jan Moons provided an overview of the changing energy landscape and the future business models that will underpin the energy sector in the years to come.
The energy landscape is undergoing an important transformation in terms of technologies and business models, akin to passing from an “old world” to a “new world”. Currently, energy generation is centralised and distributed as a commodity to consumers through traditional electric grids; in insular environments, fossil fuels are still dominant. In the future, these paradigms will be revolutionised. While centralised generation of energy and distribution through grids will continue, consumers will turn into producers, or “prosumers”. Renewable energies will mix with fossil fuels to reduce emissions, as new technologies, smart grids and intelligent control will increase energy efficiency and engage end-users with new energy services.
The changing landscape gives rise to the emergence of new business models which require adaptation and evolution of both utility producers and consumers. Utility companies on islands should re-design their business operations focussing on how revenue will be generated. Traditionally, island utilities operate on a metred business model. Going forward, attention is required to rebalance usage- versus subscription revenue. Additionally, there will be new electricity applications like electric vehicle charging, electric cooking, dryers and water heating. Emerging technologies should be recognised for their role in promoting the energy transition and as sources of revenue. New energy services will be offered, such as ice storage, SWAC, energy efficiency consultancy, pre-paid energy, “flat-rate” bundling and neighbourhood microgrid. Overall, there is a need to prepare the islands’ electricity infrastructure to cover the needs of an increasingly electrified society.
Mr Moons also showed a video outlining the “Aruba Renewable Energy Strategy” (ARES) devised by the utility company WEB. This strategy has an ambitious vision for a cleaner, greener and fuel oil-free Aruba that uses reliable, affordable and sustainable energy. In order to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and carbon emissions, ARES has a goal of reaching 50% renewable energy. Projects to be developed include solar parks, wind parks, flywheel mechanical energy storage, battery energy storage, ice storage and a new data centre. Thanks to ARES, fuel consumption was reduced by 40% in 2018, and renewable energy penetration increased by 18%. It is expected that, in 2022, fuel consumption will be reduced by 67% and renewable energy penetration will increase by 40%.
Clean technologies and business models.Robert-Jan Moons, Project Manager, TNO Caribbean, Aruba
Key points
The energy landscape is changing paradigms due to the transition from centralized, fossil-fuel based production to combined centralized and distributed renewable energy generation. Consumers will play a more active role going from commodity indifference to end-user engagement,through new energy services. Utilities on islands should re-design their business models focusing on how revenue will be generated. Emerging technologies can be leveraged as an important source of revenue.The electricity infrastructure of islands should cover the needs of further electrification of energy
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Consulting group COWI is undertaking a study to evaluate the progress made on the energy transition roadmaps for OCTs, as an update and follow up to a previous study conducted in 2016. This former study consisted in a questionnaire developed by IRENA with their SIDS Lighthouse initiative to assess the readiness to deploy renewable energy. The follow-up study conducted by COWI builds upon the same questionnaire and adds a few extra questions, in order to measure the progress made on the Energy Roadmap. The aim is to measure progress by looking at differences with the previous studies and to collect success stories and a set of lessons learned.
Mr Wessel also presented some of the projects that consultancy COWI is undertaking in insular territories, namely in Fiji, the Faroe Islands and Honduras (Bay Islands). The first project on Fiji aims at contributing to the effective commitment of private capital to deployment of renewable energy projects in the Pacific SIDS. Tools include a financial analysis model, a manual on financing renewable energies through PPA contracts, and a workshop on capacity building on financing renewables through bankable PPA contracts. The second project is about renewable energy in the Faroe Islands. The scope of the project includes a case study and preliminary design of the electrification of heating in a village, an excel model and manual for pre-feasibility studies. The project on Honduras identifies wind, energy and solar potential through installation of wind and solar measurement campaigns.
Many lessons can be learnt through these projects. The project on the Fiji shows that pacific SIDS are highly motivated and are already implementing PPAs. Yet, there is a large discrepancy in know-how between local utilities and regulators, and the international IPPs or developers. Contracts negotiations are usually difficult, hence there is a need for substantial support from donors and IFIs for knowledge and funding. Information needs to be more coordinated from donors and IFIs. The second project on the Faroe Islands shows that small scale District Heating based on heat pumps is competitive in comparison with individual heat pumps and oil boilers, but only economically viable if individual heat pumps have not been installed beforehand. It also shows that 100% renewable energy electricity systems are possible and competitive in micro grids, compared to fossil fuels. Finally, the project in Honduras shows that it is more efficient to use local materials and resources for renewable energy technologies. Moreover, it is mandatory that infrastructure is designed to withstand local weather.
Ramon Wessel, expert in energy and environment, COWI
SESSION 4 – MEASURING PROGRESS ON ENERGY TRANSITION ROADMAPS
Key points
Need to cut discrepancy between local regulators/utilities and international IPPs/developers
Substantial support from donors and IFIs for knowledge and funding is needed
Technical support is needed
It is important to use local materials and resources for insular environments, as well as local knowledge
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OCTs can benefit from a series of EU collaboration and funding opportunities in the area of renewable energy through various programmes and initiatives such as Horizon 2020, LIFE, EMFFF, 11th EDF, EUSEW, etc. OCTA organised a “EU Programme Workshop” on the 11th and 12th of December 2019 to raise general awareness and facilitate access of OCTs to different sources of EU funding.
EU collaboration and funding opportunities.Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment Officer, OCTA Secretariat
The main aim of this session was to inform participants of the different funding opportunities provided by the European Union. In the second part of the session, the island of St Maarten presented a review of the electricity system on the island and the promotion of future renewable energy projects.
SESSION 5 – COLLABORATIONS AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Horizon 2020 is the European Programme for Research and Innovation with an overall budget of around € 80 billion for the period 2014-2020. Horizon 2020 is not only about fundamental research, but it is also about social innovation, citizens, consumers and new business models. The Work Programmes include a series of societal challenges that Horizon 2020 seeks to address. The most relevant challenges for renewable energyare “a secure, clean and efficient energy” (societal challenge 3) and “climate action, the environment, resource efficiency and raw materials (societal challenge 5)”. Other challenges include transport and mobility, which are also relevant for renewable energy. The Work Programme for the period 2019-2020 has been published on 02 July 2020 and includes various calls. Two calls related to Islands have been presented during the workshop:LC-SC3-ES-4-2018-2020: Decarbonising energy systems of geographical IslandsLC-SC3-ES-11-2020: Rapid Relief through Transition on IslandsThey will close on the 29th of January 2020; a specific budget is associated to each different call for project. All information can be found on a single platform “Funding & Tender Opportunities ” where finding consortium partners is also possible.
In some cases it is also possible to participate in attributed projects such as the European Islands Facility (LC-SC3-ES-8-2019), which aims at mobilising €100 million investment by 2023 to EU islands towards sustainable energy transition projects and to bring expertise and financial support to develop investment concepts. The consortium has contacted OCTA to possibly channel needs assessment questionnaires to Islands.
6https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home
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LIFE Programme is entirely dedicated to the environment, nature, conservation and climate action for the period 2014-2020. It has an overall budget of €3.4 billion. For the next 2021-2027 period, the Commission proposed a budget increase to €5.45 billion. LIFE programme plays an important role in improving the quality of the environment, in halting biodiversity loss and in supporting the shift towards a resource efficient and low carbon economy. The LIFE Programme 2021-2027 will be open to OCTs and will be composed of four subprogrammes, i.e. 1) nature and biodiversity; 2) circular economy and quality of life; 3) climate mitigation and adaptation; 4) clean energy transition. Participation of OCTs is especially encouraged (but not limited) to the first sub-programme, nature and biodiversity. This subprogramme finances small scale grants particularly in OCTs.Typical actions would involve promotion of best practices and behavioural changes, support to policy development, mobilising investments, improving skills, educating, etc. o A public consultation will be launched in January 2020 on LIFE Programme 2021-2027 which is due to be adopted in autumn 2020. The LIFE programme requires co-financing.
The European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) is the fund for the EU's maritime and fisheries policies for 2014-2020. Its objective is to help fishermen in the transition to sustainable fishing, to support coastal communities in diversifying their economies, to finance projects that create new jobs and improve quality of life along European coasts and to support sustainable aquaculture developments. OCTs can benefit from calls which are under direct management. A blue economy window call for SMEs is open until the 27th of February 2020, with grants between €700,000 and €2,500,000. (https://ec.europa.eu/easme/en/news/blue-economy-window-call-just-launched). Moreover, in February 2020 there will be a Blue Invest Day (https://ec.europa.eu/easme/en/blue-invest-day) that will gather investors and innovators, providing a good opportunity to meet partners. The European Maritime and Fisheries Fund 2021-2027 has been proposed by the Commission with a budget of €6.14 billion.
HORIZON 2020
https://ec.europa.eu/programmes/horizon2020/en
• Year: 2014-2020; 2021-2027 (Horizon Europe)
• Objective: research and innovation
• Amount of funding: overall €80 billion for 2014-2020; specific funding for each
LIFE programme
https://ec.europa.eu/easme/en/life
• Year: 2014-2020; and 2021-2027
• Objective: environment, nature, conservation and climate action
• Amount of funding: €3.4 billion for 2014-2020, specific funding for each call for project
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The European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) is a week-long series of events dedicated to sustainable energy, where organisations can showcase their initiatives and meet energy partners. Participation and proposals are welcome. The next EUSEW will be held between 22 and 26 June 2020 and will consist in: 1) policy conference; 2) energy awards; 3) networking village and 4) energy days. In the framework of the Policy Conference (23-25 June), it is possible to organise a 90-minute session. Partnering is strongly encouraged, and the call for session is open till the 20th of January 2020. This is a good opportunity to showcase good examples of policies within OCTs. OCTA is willing to organise a session. The Energy Days take place between May and June 2020. They can also be organised in OCTs. The call for submissions will open in January 2020 and the European Commission can give its support through communication activities.
11th European Development Fund (EDF) Thematic Programme. The EDF is the main European instrument for providing development aid, funding cooperation activities in the fields of economic development, social and human development as well as regional cooperation and integration. The call for expression of interest for the 11th EDF Thematic Programme was launched in July 2019; the deadline for submission was on 23 October 2019 and offers are under evaluation. The maximum amount given was €17.8 million. The overall objective of the action is to contribute to OCT’s economic, social and environmentally sustainable development. The key specific objectives are to increase resilience to the effects of climate change and to further develop a low-carbon, energy efficient economy.
The OCTA secretariat remains ready to give its support to sharing information on projects, consortia and opportunities regarding EU-funded activities.
Q&A
Regarding consortium partners, OCTA could play a role in helping organisations within OCTsfind suitable partners.
A participant made an intervention about the necessity of accessing affordable financing and removing barriers to finance, which is essential if significant investments in renewable energy sources and storage systems are to be carried out. OCTs, as small islands, do not have expertise or knowledge about the international structures and systems to access different forms of financing. In this regard, OCTA could play a key role in helping navigate the systems’ procedures and guiding appropriate instruments for projects. The participant also raised awareness of a climate and finance fund managed by IRENA and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. This fund finances up to 50% of the cost of a project with 1-2% interest loan.
7https://www.eusew.eu/
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Patrick Drijvers provided an overview of electricity production and its grid system in St Maarten. He also discussed about future renewable energy projects in the island.
The island of St Maarten is divided into two parts: one linked to France and one to the Netherlands. Voltage is different in the two parts, and no grid interconnection is present between the two today. NV GEBE is the is the utility company producing and distributing electricity on St Maarten. Currently, it operates mostly with fossil fuels generators, with a total installed capacity of 90MW.
The island has undertaken upgrades to improve the resiliency of its grid system and evaluate the potential of renewable energies. In the future, micro grids for schools and government buildings could be installed. A system of floating solar panels in the Great Salt Pond is also being considered. There are also plans to reduce the carbon footprint of the harbour by connecting cruise ships to a high voltage grid. The high-tension cables have already been installed. Finally, plans are under consideration to reduce the carbon footprint of traffic through the introduction of electrical cars and charging stations. The latter are, in fact, absent from the Dutch part of the island.
St. Martin faces several challenges that need to be faced. Given that the island of St. Maarten is in the tropical hurricane belt, it is necessary that infrastructure is resilient and resistant to this type of extreme weather events, in order to avoid loss of power installations. Insurance coverage is also mandatory. Implementation costs remain high, given that land is expensive.
EDF Caribbean programme on sustainable energy.Patrick Drijvers, Distribution Manager, Planning and Engineering Execution, NV GEBE, Sint Maarten
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The impacts of climate change are becoming more and more visible, as shown by numerous reports, including those published by the IPCC and the European Environment Agency (EEA). These impacts also adversely affect energy and agricultural systems at all time scales, from seconds (lightnings), weeks (heat waves), years (temperature increases) and decades (sea level rise). Key climate risks for European energy systems are decreasing water availability for power production, infrastructure risks from extreme weather events, and increased need for heating, cooling and water provision. Climate change adaptation policy generally focuses on the long-term. It is important that climate-resilient and well-adapted energy systems address climate variability, weather variability and climate change at all relevant time scales. All parts of the EU energy systems are vulnerable to climate change, and actions should be taken to improve adaptation and climate resiliency, as explained in a report recently published by the EEA8.
The European Union has set a dual challenge. On the one hand, mitigating the effect of climate change by cutting GHG emissions. On the other hand, to adapt to climate change in order to increase society’s resilience and manage unavoidable impacts. Mitigating and adapting to climate change are two faces of the same coin. Both are necessary, both complement each other and are mutually reinforcing. Their actions and strategies are enshrined in the 2030 Climate and Energy Package, and in the 2013 European Adaptation Strategy. The Green Deal, unveiled in December 2019, will also play a major role.
The 2030 Climate and Energy Package has specific objectives: to cut GHG emissions by at least 40% compared to 1990 levels, to reach at least 32% share for renewable energy, and at least 32.5% improvement in energy efficiency. The 2013 European Adaptation Strategy has three objectives.
EU policy on climate change adaptation in the Energy Sector.Andras Toth, Policy Officer, Adaptation Unit, DG CLIMA, European Commission
This session analysed the modalities in which climate change impacts energy systems, evaluating what measures should be adopted to mitigate adverse effects. At the end of the session, it was suggested that OCTs collectively develop further ambitious actions to contrast the effects of climate change, thus coming to show further leadership in this field.
SESSION 6 – CLIMATE CHANGE, IMPACTS ON ENERGY SYSTEMS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
8https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/adaptation-in-energy-system
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First, to promote adaptation actions in all Member States. Funding to help build resilience is provided through LIFE, and action is promoted at local level via the Covenant of Mayors initiative, which seeks to reduce CO2/GHG emissions by at least 40% by 2030 and to adapt to climate change. Second, to better inform decision making through research and a platform for adaptation information in Europe called “Climate-ADAPT”. Third, to make the EU-level action “climate-proof” through integration of climate adaptation needs into key vulnerable sectors (e.g. agriculture, fisheries, regional development, etc.) and the promotion of infrastructure resilience and insurance against disasters.
The main findings of the evaluation of the EU’s strategy on adaptation to climate change show that more work is needed to implement and monitor national strategies, bridge newly emerging knowledge gaps and address territorial and social differences in vulnerability to climate change.
The EU has already identified a list of relevant actions for a long-term climate and adaptation strategy. First, the EU will seek to integrate adaptation into the implementation of the Energy Union Governance and in the National Energy and Climate Action Plans (NECPs) that spell out how Member States will reach the climate and energy objectives set by the Union. Second, public and private funding will be channelled in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) of the EU into ERDF (30%), cohesion funding (37%), Horizon Europe (35%), the Common Agricultural Policy (40%) and LIFE. Cohesion funding should be made conditional to disaster risk management plans, which should be consistent with national adaptation strategies and NECPs. Finally, the Commission launched a strategy on Financing Sustainable Growth in March to mobilise private finance towards climate and sustainable objectives.
Key points
Climate change poses several risks on the energy sector
It is important to develop climate change adaptation policies that foresee climate-resilient and well-adapted energy systems able to address climate variability, weather variability and climate change at all relevant time scales
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Montserrat has developed a clear energy policy to promote a greener transportation system, showing that a mix of regulatory incentives and the promotion of renewable energy can bring positive benefits. Moreover, Montserrat has taken action to green the electricity sector in the island, showing that using indigenous resources to achieve greater fuel independence is a possible reality.
About one fourth of Montserrat’s GDP is spent on fuel and oil imports. Hence, to reduce consumption of fuel and increase efficiency, the Government of Montserrat has adopted an energy policy framework that promotes the development of electric, hybrid-electric and advanced vehicle technologies in order to develop a more robust and integrated transportation sector. The energy policy also foresees feasibility and cost-benefit analyses and implementation scenarios for effective public transport, the establishment of transportation emission standards for imported vehicles, the investigation for the possibility of using renewable energy in the ferry system to Montserrat and general use of biofuels.
Regarding the promotion of green transport system, in August 2019 the Cabinet of Montserrat introduced a series of regulatory and tax incentives for imports of green vehicles (all electric, plug-in hybrid, charging stations and replacement batteries), resulting in an uptake of green vehicles of 9%.
Policies for greener transport were complemented with efforts at greening the electricity sector in the island. Solar PV will be boosted, and solar power penetration is expected to rise to 14% in 2020. Wind power also holds potential on the island, and assessment studies are currently being carried out. Lastly, the island has 4MW of proven geothermal energy source. Financing is needed to build a plant, which would allow the island to be energy sufficient.
Feasibility studies show that challenges remain in the advancement of a greener transport system. Electric cars have high initial costs, and battery disposal remains a problem. Moreover, the electricity source is mostly diesel based, which calls for further action towards renewable energy sources. Advancements in public transportation are also hampered by challenges related to low efficiency and effectiveness, and general reluctance to use public transportation due to a high percentage of private cars.
Greening of the transportation system.Kenrick Burke, Director of Energy, Government, Montserrat
Key point
a mix of regulatory incentives and the promotion of renewable energy can advance greener transportation systems.
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Robert-Jan Moons made an intervention highlighting the importance, for OCTs, to commit to clear objectives for GHG emissions reduction.
As islands, OCTs have a strong interest in mitigating climate change. Islands are most vulnerable to extreme weather events and sea-level rise. Hurricanes can destroy insular infrastructures; irreversible damage can also afflict beaches and coral reefs. The adverse effects of climate change and its related rising temperatures and extreme events should encourage OCTs to show determination, to take action and to be world leaders in the fight against climate change. Hence, Mr Moons suggested that OCTs collectively develop ambitious objectives to limit the rise of global temperatures by showing adherence to global targets. Such a pledge would allow OCTs to make a strong case at global level, strengthening their position in accessing climate finance.
Intervention on the importance of committing to reducing GHG emissions in OCTs also in view of accessing climate finance.Robert-Jan Moons, Project Manager, TNO Caribbean, Aruba
Q&A
A question was raised on the challenges faced in implementing renewable energy on the island. Mr Burke answered that, whilst theobjective of the island is to become 100% energy independent and sustainable, projects usually have a small scale (1MW, 2MW) and therefore do not attract foreign companies.
A representative from French Polynesia highlighted the importance of promoting energy conservation. For instance, it is necessary that energy conservation is considered as a parameter for designing buildings. It was suggested that electric vehicles could be introduced on the island as public, “sharing” cars.
A participant said that an observatory to understand energy consumption sectors has been set up in French Polynesia.
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When discussing about the energy transition, much attention is given to technological developments. Yet, human behaviour is also an important factor to consider, as the way humans interact with the energy system ultimately affects the way energy is used and consumed. For example, some technological innovations fail to take flight because of poorly designed user interface, which makes people’s engagement difficult. Hence, it is fundamental to understand the linkages between human behaviour and energy use, in order to foster a more efficient and effective energy transition.
In Aruba, a survey was conducted on more than 2000 households to understand the community attitudes and behaviours towards the adoption of energy efficiency measures. The survey illustrates a general attitude of the population towards saving energy, especially in terms of light, water and inverter air-conditioning. Yet, people still see barriers that prevent them from being more energy efficient, namely high costs, inhibiting legislation and the belief that progress will simplify green energy households. Moreover, people believe that the responsibility for solving energy problems mostly lies with governments, utility companies and environmental organisations, rather than with the community or themselves. Such an attitude can hamper the adoption of energy-saving behaviours or investments in greener forms of energy. In addition, energy efficiency is considered important mainly for the economic savings it implies, and only to a lesser extent for the contribution to the environment it gives. The survey also shows that climate change is considered a problem of the future, not of today.
The results of the survey imply that changing people’s mindsets can be beneficial to promote energy-savings and energy efficiency. People need to realise that the responsibility for solving energy problems also lies with themselves. The need to increase energy efficiency should be highlighted, raising awareness among the communities that if action is not taken, the costs of global warming, environmental destruction or exhaustion of fossil fuels will be too hard to bear. In short, individuals should understand that climate change is a problem of the present, not the future.
Smart Community in Aruba.Robert-Jan Moons, Project Manager, TNO Caribbean, Aruba
To fully exploit the potential of innovations and renewable energy, it is important to build capacity in OCTs and to consider the role that individual consumers play in using energy and promoting energy efficiency. This session analysed the role of human behaviour in energy systems, as well as the importance of energy communities in fostering a green transition.
SESSION 7 – EXPLOITATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING
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Individuals and communities should thus be empowered to act; their diverse attitudes towards energy should be recognised. Some individuals may be collectively and actively eco-conscious, others, tech-enthusiasts, acting more on an individual level. High-end living individuals have a more collective and passive role towards energy consumption, whilst cost-savers usually consider costs and savings as the fundamental values when making energy choices. A first step to promoting behavioural change should be within this latter group. In order to influence attitudes towards energy efficiency and savings, there needs to be an alignment of action and narrative among the government, authorities, the private sector and citizens. Such a narrative should identify energy problems and create a feeling among individuals that they can actively be promoters of solutions. Technological innovations can also provide additional help. Energy consumption apps that allow users to monitor their real-time energy consumption can engage users and stimulate energy savings.
Key points
Human behaviour has a key role in the energy transition, since the way humans interact with the energy system affects the way energy is used and consumedIndividuals have different attitudes towards saving energy and promoting energy efficiency. These attitudes should be recognisedTo influence attitudes towards energy efficiency and savings, the action and narrative among the government, authorities, the private sector and citizens should be alignedIndividuals should be empowered to act, realising that climate change is a problem of today, not of the future
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The Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) adopted by the European Parliament in November 2018 seeks to promote the use of energy from renewable sources throughout Europe. According to the Directive, Member States must ensure that citizens are entitled to self-generate, store and sell excess production of renewable energy sources. Therefore, Europeans, local authorities, small businesses and cooperatives will have the right to produce, consume, store and sell RES without being subject to punitive taxes or excessive red tape. In fact, RED II includes definitions for “renewable energy communities” and for individual “prosumers”, i.e. consumers and producers of energy.
Professor Tsoutsos gave many examples of initiatives that encourage energy communities and prosumers in Europe under the project “REScoop”. Tools used in these initiatives include the installation of smart metering systems, special tariffs or leaflets to encourage energy efficiency and savings. Overall, it is demonstrated that these interventions lead to reductions in energy consumption. For example, subscribing to energy consumption monitoring and savings software platforms results in a decrease in energy consumption. Becoming a prosumer also reduces electricity demand. By investing in renewable energy, prosumers create trust, which is essential for the functioning of energy communities.
Examples from energy communities in the EU.Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete
Key points
The EU has taken efforts to encourageenergy communities and mandate the creation of regulatory frames for individuals to become prosumers
Prosumers and energy communities reduce electricity demand by consuming less
Energy consumption monitoring and saving software platforms lead to reductions in energy consumption
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During the two days of the workshop, attendees shared their ideas, knowledge, expertise and experiences related to sustainable energy in the OCTs. In the conclusive session, Ms Kwiatkowski and Prof. Tsoutsos summarised all the recommendations proposed by participants and presented them to the audience for further comments and discussion. These recommendations are to be considered as a starting point for future energy discussions; they summarise collective needs expressed by OCTs to achieve their green energy transitions. They can also provide a guidance for OCTA’s work in its support role.
The importance of collaboration has been highlighted for technical assistance and financing.
These recommendations will be circulated and further elaborated with the expertise of OCTs. Some OCTs have offered to help in specific topics such as legislation, local regulation, sustainability and energy demand, the creation of an energy observatory for OCTs, bioclimatic design, financing, business models, etc.
Claire Kwiatkowski, Energy and Environment Officer at the OCTA Secretariat Prof. Theocharis Tsoutsos, Technical University of Crete
CONCLUSION: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE ENERGY-RELATED ACTIVITIES AND CLOSING REMARKS
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Setting clear targets and using proper indicators (e.g. the energy observatory in French Polynesia provides relevant data)
Based on needs. Needs assessment is a critical issue
Creating critical mass amongst OCTs to demonstrate projects. Local authorities would be convinced by demonstrated models.
Strengthen local capacities, infrastructure, staff training (local institutions should be mobilised), labelling and standardisation systems (which should be seen as opportunities)
Create energy communities
Promote sustainability, energy conservation, energy efficiency and circular economy; work both on the demand and supply of energy.
Green all sectors including transports and bioclimatic construction (e.g. ports)
Create enabling regulatory environment for renewable energies & energy communities (e.g.: individual energy producers)
Unblock finance to kickstart renewable energy projects
Increase coordination with IFIs, utilise various tools for investments (e.g. soft loans and grants)
Sign a pledge and/or commit to emissions reduction in the upcoming OCTA strategy if appropriate and feasible.
Could play a stronger role in coordinating actions to provide advice andfacilitate access to EU funds. It could promote the eligibility of OCTs to programmes. OCTA could facilitate partnerships and give further visibility of OCTs in European strategies, for example by participating in public consultations. OCTA could help in clarifying the rules of participation in various funds.
Move towards new and innovativebusiness models
Spur innovation, develop relations and partnerships with researchcentres
Develop a common vision to implement decarbonisation including stakeholders at all level and stages: municipalities, local businesses, academia. This is important to foster a behavioural change and gain public acceptance.
Keep a local approach: use local resources and develop knowledge locally.
Needs and Recommendations – achieving the green energy transitions in OCTs
Create green transition plans and policies
Energy and climate finance
Strengthening the role of OCTA
New models
ASSOCIATION OF THE OVERSEAS COUNTRIES AND TERRITORIES OF
THE EUROPEAN UNION
ANNEXESBackground documents and information. All the presentations of the workshop and all background documents can be found and accessed at the following link:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1vg9otFktLTFiEgTKBx-R3CbSeCbp7TOk