Toward a 100% renewable island: A case study of Ometepe's energy mix.

Abstract Despite generally having significant renewable energy potential, islands tend to depend on imported fossil fuels with volatile prices. This paper aims to provide technical inputs for reorganizing the energy planning for Ometepe Island. The result of the wind and solar resource assessments indicates wind power densities of 147 W/m2 and 178 W/m2 at elevations of 80 m and 120 m, respectively, and an irradiation level of 5.3 kWh/m2/day. The estimated wind LCOEs are significantly lower than current diesel plant operating prices. Photovoltaic systems will probably become cost-effective 15 years from now for all non-subsidized end customers. However, it would be necessary to store energy to phase out diesel generation, and analyses were conducted to determine the possibility of a pumped-storage hydro plant. The annual biogas potential was estimated as ∼550,000 Nm3, and in conjunction with electric stoves, it could be used to replace other fuels for cooking. Electric buses are an option for replacing the current diesel-run public buses, but advantageous financial conditions and reorganization of the bus schedules would be required. Also, a street lighting program was found to be cost-effective. The renewable energy transformation of the island might act as a role model for energy transition in Nicaragua. Highlights • A low-medium wind potential and a high-medium solar potential are found. • The possibility of a hydro-pumped storage plant in the island is shown. • The energy and economics aspects of a public electric mobility are analyzed. • LPG-wood/electric stoves-biogas for cooking are considered. • A street lighting retrofit is cost-effective and helps to integrate renewable sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]