Wind resource assessment and energy modelling of smaller outer islands in Fiji

This study assesses and models the wind resources and energy potential of
five smaller outer islands in Fiji that are not connected to the central
electricity grid. Long-term wind data spanning approximately 9 – 11 years
were analyzed using the Wind Atlas Analysis and Application Program
(WAsP). High-resolution wind resource maps were generated and evaluated
for each island site.   Results indicated that Yasawa and Koro
Islands have a higher wind potential, with mean wind speeds of 7.01 m/s
and 6.47 m/s and corresponding wind power densities (WPD) of 335 W/m² and
339 W/m², respectively, indicating suitability for utility-scale wind
power applications. The islands of Gau, Ovalau, and Taveuni exhibit
moderate wind speeds ranging from 4.26 m/s to 4.82 m/s, indicating
potential for standalone or hybrid renewable energy systems. The modelled
wind farms have installed capacities of 0.8 MW to 10 MW, yielding annual
energy productions (AEP) of 4.23 GWh/year to 22.97 GWh/year. These AEPs
are sufficient to meet the energy demand of the islands. The analysis
highlights the spatial mismatch between island-wide grid-average wind
resources and localized turbine micro-siting conditions, emphasizing the
importance of site-specific assessment in complex island terrain. These
findings support wind energy integration into Fiji’s renewable energy
transition in outer islands without grid-connected electricity, align with
Fiji’s UNFCCC Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets, and
support Sustainable Development Goals SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy)
and SDG 13 (Climate Action).