Islands

Due to the great problems that islands have to get energy independently, we propose an approach which combines wind energy, solar and biogas.

We have on one hand the power generation by wind sources with the main advantage of its profitability and the disadvantage of its intermittency, and on the other hand, we count on the power generation of solar energy using photovoltaic parks where we are reaching parity in cost. It is quite feasible and it is used in times of increased energy demand. Therefore biogas cogeneration plants complete the triad perfectly due to the support for the other two technologies, providing a real solution to the efficient management of both liquid and solid waste. This way, an island can be completely energy independent, without depend on barrels of oil.

The energy system of an island has significant singularities arising from the limited capacity of self-sufficiency, isolation from other systems and the fragmentation of the territory. These characteristics imply a larger energy vulnerability than in inland areas.

We must work with the aim of achieving a transformation of the current situation of total dependence on external suppliers to a complete self-sufficiency. The island energy models should evolve from the gradual elimination of oil and gas consumption towards the implementation of wind, solar, geothermal and biogas, which are highly viable in some island areas characterized by  constant winds, high annual sunshine and a latent volcanism; The recovery of solid waste with energy recovery has however major pollution problems posed by the incineration of waste. Biogas is presented as an alternative to solve this problem.