Réunion solar abbey

Can Reunion Island achieve energy autonomy by 2030?

Reunion Island, a French overseas region located in the Indian Ocean, is facing a three-fold challenge combining demographics, the environment and energy. To limit its heavy dependence on imported fossil fuels, Reunion Island aims to achieve energy autonomy by 2030 based on greater energy efficiency and renewable energy alternatives.

What is green energy revolution Reunion Island?

Until recently, Reunion Island had implemented the GERRI project , Green Energy Revolution Reunion Island. This economic and social development program centered on the sustainable development of Reunion Island and resulted from the “Grenelle Environment” French environment roundtables.

Can geothermal energy be developed on Reunion Island?

Geothermal energy also presents significant potential for development, with an installed capacity of 30 MW; however, the main problem for this resource on Reunion Island is its location in a protected natural area.

Is Reunion Island a renewable resource?

Hydroelectricity is the island's main renewable resource. It accounted for 17,2% of its total electricity production in 2015 (133,6 MW of installed capacity), spread over six sites in the eastern part of the island . An additional capacity of 50 MW should be deployed by 2030 . Reunion Island's biomass potential is considerable.

How did Reunion Island get its electricity?

Concluding discussion During the 1980s, Reunion Island's entire electricity supply came from renewable hydropower. As the population grew and quality of life improved, coal and oil were introduced to help meet increasing demand.

Is biomass a viable energy source for Reunion Island?

The development of biomass on Reunion Island is economically more viable. By 2030 in the transition scenarios, electricity from biomass has advantageously replaced electricity from coal and represents slightly more than 50% of electricity generation.