Social and technical barriers and options for renewable energy on remote developed islands. Case study

Norfolk Island, like many other remote islands, is dependant on the importation of diesel fuel to generate electricity. Due to high fuel importation costs, the cost of this electricity is high, and electricity generated from renewable sources can be produced more cheaply. As well as the economic benefit, there are social and environmental benefits associated with renewable energy such as reduced noise, clean air, no risk of spillage of fuel, attraction of eco-tourists, and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. With economic, social and environmental benefits that a renewable energy system has over diesel production, it is remarkable that remote developed islands such as Norfolk Island choose to not use renewables. It is clear that there are complex socio-political factors that are important in the adoption of renewable energy technologies. This paper outlines my findings from two visits made to Norfolk Island in 2003, and will form a case study for my PhD research. All currency is in Australian Dollars. 1