ASG’s proposed wind turbine project forecast to lower electricity rates

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — ASG’s proposed 42-Megawatt Wind Turbine Project, which includes a battery storage component, is expected to achieve significant progress in the government’s renewable energy goals, Gov. Lemanu P.S. Mauga said in announcing the initiative. “This project represents a significant step forward in our commitment to provide affordable and sustainable energy options for our territory,” he said.

The Lemanu-  Talauega administration believes the initiative will pave the way for lower electricity rates and a sustainable energy future. “Lower electricity bills will not only ease the financial burden on our residents but also stimulate economic growth and improve the overall quality of life in American Samoa,” the governor said.

A press release from the Governor’s Office this week explains that once completed, the 42-Megawatt wind turbine project will have an immediate positive impact on the community. This new initiative will enable the American Samoa Power Authority (ASPA) to purchase the electricity produced at a lower rate. The June 2023 Residential kWh rate is at $0.39, with a recent high in September 2023 of $0.54. This rate fluctuates with the rising cost of diesel fuel. However, the proposed electricity rate once the project is online will reduce electrical costs by up to 50%. The benefits of reducing rates will extend beyond just residential customers; businesses and industries will also see an improvement in their bottom lines. The potential savings can be significant and contribute to increased profitability, competitiveness, job creation, and overall economic growth.

In the upcoming months, ASPA intends to provide additional information to the public as well as conduct public outreach to further inform residents of the coming improvements. In order to ensure that this renewable energy project can coexist with the environment and help lower electricity costs — the environment will be prioritized during studies and all mitigation methods will be sought.

The projected timeline is as follows: Environmental studies from 2023 to 2025, construction to commence in 2026, and wind turbines operational in 2028.

For further information and updates on the 42-Megawatt Wind Turbine Project, please contact ASPA.

BACKGROUND

In 2016 the ASREC set a goal for the Territory to be 50% renewable by 2025 and 100% by 2040. ASPA is currently at 7% renewable with Photovoltaic (PV) Solar systems. The ASREC has explored other renewable energy resources such as Geothermal and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion, but concluded that wind and solar energy are the best alternatives for American Samoa. Recognizing wind energy as a viable solution, ASPA has collaborated with industry experts to develop a comprehensive plan that will revolutionize the energy landscape of the territory.