Regresar

Current development of electricity generation systems in the Galapagos Islands – Ecuador

Abstract:

The sources of electricity generation in the Galapagos Islands have been diversified due to the high risk represented by the use and transportation of fossil fuels and the application of the Zero Fossil Fuels initiative. This has increased the implementation of projects using different renewable energy sources. Despite being a World Heritage Centre, very little research has been carried out that presents the current situation of the electrical system in the Galapagos Islands. Therefore, this study reviews the current electricity sector situation in the Galapagos Islands. The characteristics of generation, distribution, and demand in the Galapagos Islands are presented. Also, the research studies and the regulations to be met for designing and implementing electric power generation projects based on renewable energy sources are detailed. In addition, this study presents the changes in the energy matrix of the Galapagos Islands in recent years, where the generation capacity and investment in hybrid systems (photovoltaic, wind, biomass, and vegetable oil - Jatropha) have been diversified and increased, encouraging research into new sources such as geothermal, biomass, waves, tides and green H2. Finally, the central policies and regulations that govern the installation of renewable generation systems in the Galapagos Islands are analyzed.