Energy transition in New Caledonia

In line with COP21 (2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference), New Caledonia is committed to its energy transition. Guided by the Agence Calédonienne de l’Energie (ACE), the New Caledonia Energy Transition Scheme (STENC) defines the island's energy policy up to 2030. Adopted by Congress in 2016, STENC revolves around three main objectives: a sharp reduction in energy consumption, the development of renewable energies and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

“Helio Boulouparis 2” photovoltaic solar power plant. Source: Nicolas Job // Heos Marine Pacifique.

To facilitate and support the implementation of this plan, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Nouméa, signed a partnership with ACE in June 2020. Since 2016, AFD has invested 233 million euros into the energy transition of the territory and completed several renewable energy projects as well as actions carried out by local communities. 

The financing of the projects will be mainly provided by the Funds of the French Ministry of Overseas 5.0 Trajectory, launched in May 2020. It is structured around five main objectives: “zero carbon”, “zero waste”, “zero pollutants”, “zero exclusion” and “zero vulnerability”.

New Caledonia depends on imports for 96% of its energy needs, mainly used in mining operations. Imports of coal and oil products remain the main energy sources of the territory. Vulnerable in terms of energy, the Caledonian authorities are thus seeking to become less dependent on external energy sources and to improve the competitiveness of the territory. There is room for improvement as only 12% of electricity production comes from renewable sources. 

By 2023, 100% of the public distribution of electricity, nearly a third of the territory's total consumption, will come from renewable sources, an objective which was meant to be achieved by 2030. 

Source: http://www.mediaterre.org/actu,20200723205359,2.html