Réunion active energy solutions

How can Reunion Island achieve energy autonomy?

Reunion Island aims to achieve energy autonomy and a 100% renewable electricity mix by 2030. Without policy support, the share of renewables remains at the 2008 reference level. The development of biomass, particularly energy cane, is economically interesting. Solar and marine energy need political and/or economic support to be developed.

How can a new energy system be made in Réunion?

This includes replacing sugar cane with different food crops; restricting urbanization; increasing the capacity for producing energy from waste; significantly scaling up photovoltaics that convert sunlight directly into energy; and convincing Réunion islanders to make certain lifestyle changes.

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.

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.

Will switching to renewables solve Réunion's self-sufficiency problem?

Although laudable, switching to renewables will not solve the self-sufficiency problem. The renewable sources Réunion uses to generate electricity will still be mainly imported from abroad. “Forests will be cut in Canada to put in our furnaces in Réunion island,” says Mathieu David, who studies mechanics and energy at the University of La Réunion.

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.