Electricity GenerationConnect Saint Helena Ltd generates electricity in 3 ways:
Electricity from Diesel At present approximately 75% of the islands electricity is generated from burning fossil fuel (diesel). We have 6 generators which have a total capacity of 7,600kW. Connect Saint Helena Ltd is committed to reducing reliance on diesel power generation by harnessing renewable energy sources. Renewable energy is cheaper to produce and does not harm the environment. Electricity from Wind We currently have 12 wind driven turbines located at Deadwood Plain. These turbines provide in excess of 20% of the islands electricity. During peak windy months, this can be as high as 30%. Electricity from Sun We have 2 small roof mounted photovoltaic (solar) power plants at our Power Station and at our offices in Jamestown. These small installations generate approximately 1% of the islands electricity. These were installed as pilot schemes. They have proven to require very little maintenance and provide energy during the daytime which is when our demand is highest. The success of the pilot schemes mean that we are actively pursuing schemes which will generate more energy from solar sources. We have secured a site at Half Tree Hollow to develop and install a 500kWp solar farm which would further increase provision from renewable energy sources. Maximising Efficiency We closely monitor both the demand for electricity and the availability of power from renewable sources. This enables us to switch between the various sources for maximum efficiency. So, for example, on a windy day we may be able to switch off a generator and therefore use less diesel. St Helena’s use of renewable energy sources is already significantly higher than in the UK and most of the rest of Europe. The graph below shows some amazing efficiency improvements. Primarily these are as a result of the renewable energy contribution. The more efficient generators installed in 2012 also contribute. By any standard these are world class improvements that help keep generation costs down and also reduce damage to the environment caused by burning fossil fuels. The Team's commitment is:
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