Tuvalu has taken a significant step forward in its energy transition with the successful completion of the country’s inaugural floating solar photovoltaic system at Tafua Pond in Funafuti. The system, installed through the Facilitation of the Achievement of the Sustainable National Energy Targets of Tuvalu Project (FASNETT) and supported by UNDP and the Global Environment Facility, positions 184 solar panels on the lagoon surface. It is expected to supply around two per cent of Funafuti’s annual electricity demand, reducing diesel consumption by more than 47,000 litres each year.
The floating solar project demonstrates the viability of renewable solutions adapted to the lagoon and land-constrained environment of Tuvalu. With limited flat terrain and rising fuel import costs, the Government has continued to prioritise innovative approaches to energy security. Following the successful commissioning of the Tafua Pond system, feasibility work is now underway to assess options for scaling similar installations to other islands and coastal communities, alongside micro-grid systems to increase resilience and reduce reliance on imported diesel.
Tuvalu’s energy transition aligns with its Nationally Determined Contribution target of achieving near-complete emissions reduction in the power sector. However, challenges remain, particularly relating to supply chain logistics, maintenance capacity and financial structures for small island energy projects. Progress will require ongoing collaboration between government agencies, development partners and private sector providers to ensure that new systems are sustainable, affordable and technically supportable over the long term.
The expansion of renewable energy systems in Tuvalu also sits within a broader Pacific context where island states are grappling with high fuel transport costs, volatility in global energy markets and the withdrawal of some commercial banking services that complicate project financing. Regional collaboration on technology standards, procurement frameworks and training programmes will be important to ensure the long-term effectiveness of these systems.
General Manager of Tuvalu Energy Corporation, Mafalu Lotolua, has noted that the project marks a meaningful shift toward locally appropriate solutions, while the UNDP Pacific Office says the installation signals a determined step forward in Tuvalu’s sustainable development pathway.
Tuvalu currently relies heavily on diesel generators for electricity generation, which is costly and vulnerable to supply chain disruptions. Rising fuel prices have placed pressure on household budgets, government operations and businesses. The move to diversify energy sources is seen as both an economic and environmental priority, particularly in the context of climate change and Tuvalu’s limited land space.
Expanding the floating solar project is being examined as a practical alternative to land-based solar farms, given the scarcity of flat and available land on Funafuti. Early studies suggest that solar arrays on lagoon surfaces can produce reliable generation while avoiding land competition. However, detailed engineering assessments are needed to examine anchoring design, tidal conditions, storm resilience and maintenance requirements.
The micro-grid component of the project aims to improve energy access in outer island communities. Small-scale solar and battery systems can reduce the need for regular fuel deliveries and allow more stable power supply for schools, clinics, refrigeration and communication systems.
Community consultations are being carried out to ensure the systems are suited to local conditions and maintenance capabilities. Training will be incorporated into the implementation phase so that island technicians can manage basic servicing and fault response.
If the feasibility results are favourable, Tuvalu could move to staged implementation over the coming three to five years. The initiative aligns with national targets to increase renewable energy share and support climate adaptation measures.
Main picture: Representational image of a floating solar energy project.
