American Samoa’s Path to Clean Energy
Published · 2 min read
American Samoa is working hard to stop using dirty energy. The island wants to protect its land and people. That’s why it’s turning to clean energy like sun, wind, and water. These changes will help lower fuel costs, stop pollution, and make the island stronger during storms.
Why Energy Change Matters
In the past, American Samoa used fossil fuels like diesel for all its power. These fuels are imported, which makes electricity very expensive. In 2013, the cost reached $0.42 per kilowatt-hour. That’s much higher than the U.S. average.
Also, natural disasters like the 2009 tsunami made it clear the island needs better energy systems. When disasters hit, fuel supplies get delayed or damaged. That means lights go out. Schools and hospitals suffer. So, the island started making a strategic energy plan.
Goals of the Energy Plan
The energy plan was created with help from the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The main goals are:
- Use less diesel fuel
- Use local energy sources like sun and wind
- Teach people about saving energy
- Build better power systems
- Make energy cheaper and cleaner
Clean Energy Options
American Samoa has many clean energy choices. Each one uses a natural resource to make power.
1. Solar Power
The island gets a lot of sunshine. That makes it perfect for solar panels. In 2012, a 1.75-megawatt solar plant was built at the airport. It now provides about 10% of Tutuila’s power.
Plans include adding solar to other islands like Ta’u, Ofu, and Aunu’u. These islands are small, so solar panels with batteries can provide most of their power needs.
2. Wind Energy
Some places on the islands get steady wind. That wind can turn wind turbines and make electricity. A study is being done to find the best spots. This will help build wind farms without harming nature or people.
3. Hydropower
Hydropower uses water from streams to turn turbines. The island’s hills and rain make this possible. Old plants like the Fagatogo hydro plant once worked well and could be fixed up again.
4. Geothermal
Tutuila, the biggest island, sits near volcanoes. That means hot rocks under the ground.
