American Samoa wind energy hybrid systems

Can American Samoa develop wind power?

American Samoa is exploring opportunities for both offshore and onshore wind power generation. In 2022, federal legislation opened offshore waters around the U.S. territories (including American Samoa) to wind power development.

Is American Samoa a renewable country?

American Samoa’s energy sector relies almost entirely on imported fossil fuels, although renewables represent a small but growing power system contribution. The territory possesses substantial solar energy resources, as well as wind and biomass resource potential.

Does American Samoa have a geothermal energy plan?

The 2016 American Samoa Energy Action Plan identifies some geothermal resources, but none of these are viable for commercial electricity generation. The 2016 plan instead emphasizes the development of wind and solar power (Ness, Haase, and Conrad 2016). American Samoa is exploring opportunities for both offshore and onshore wind power generation.

How much solar power does American Samoa have?

In 2021, solar power accounted for about 11% of American Samoa’s electricity generating capacity. American Samoa is less than 1,000 miles south of the equator and has abundant solar energy resources.

What kind of energy does American Samoa use?

American Samoa uses imported fossil fuels for almost all of the territory's energy needs, including transportation, drinking and waste water treatment, and most (about 97% in 2020) of its electric power generation. Electricity prices in American Samoa vary with world petroleum prices.

How much does electricity cost in Samoa?

Average U.S. and American Samoa Electricity Prices (2022) ASPA rates are down slightly as of January 2024—approximately $0.41/kWh for residential and commercial customers and $0.38/kWh for industrial customers. ASPA’s total energy rates include a renewable energy flat rate charged at $0.002/kWh across all service types (ASPA 2024).