Tokelau is about to become the first nation in the world powered entirely and solely by solar panels. It is a territory of New Zealand and consists of three coral atolls (Fakaofo, Atafu and Nukunun) for a total area of 10 square kilometers. In a space that may seem limited, more than 4000 solar panels are now being installed which will lead to its world record by the end of 2012.
He is about to end up run over, his mother saves him
Tokelau is about to turn into first nation in the world powered completely and uniquely by solar panels. This turn is combined with a total renounce the importation of oil. Tokelau is a territory of the New Zealand and consists of three coral atolls (Fakaofo, Atafu and Nukunun) for a total area of 10 square kilometers. In what might seem limited space, more than are now being installed 4000 solar panels which will lead her to obtain her own world record by the end of 2012.
Solar panels will be able to deliver all the electricity needed to the 1400 inhabitants of the place. Fakaofo atoll could be the first of the three to be able to boast of relying exclusively on the use of clean energy from the sun. Tokelau nation has been up to this time 95% dependent on oil imports for its energy needs, with the purchase of over 2000 barrels of fuel per year.
The switch to solar will allow Tokelau to save over $ 800 a year spent so far for the purchase and transport of oil, but in addition to the economic advantages there will be very important benefits from an environmental point of view. The carbon dioxide emissions they will in fact be reduced by more 12 thousand tons over the next twenty years.
Atafu lagoon islet - Photo: Christian Cabre
Foua ToloaTokelau Energy Minister appears to be pleased with the switch to solar energy and complete give up on oil of the nation. In fact, he allegedly stated that the purchase of oil did not only involve huge costs for Tokelau, but also the continuous exposure to environmental risks due to possible accidents during the transport of the black gold to the atolls.
The solar panel installation project received funding from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Commerce in the amount of 7,5 million dollars. The Tokelau community would have welcomed the change in a decidedly positive way. The installation of solar panels in the atolls of Atafu and Nukunun is expected to be completed by next September.
Marta Albè
