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The Ha’apai Micro-Wind Project will deliver fossil-free power to the grid and is the first ever wind turbine installed in the outer islands by Tonga Power Ltd. Most importantly, it will be another step forward towards meeting Tonga Power’s strategic targets for renewable energy delivery while continuing a balance work logic and professionalism in its four island grids.
The successful trial of the Nakolo wind farm that has been operating for over two years now resulted in adapting this technology in Ha’apai.
The Ha’apai micro-wind turbine units were shipped from the United Kingdom, manufactured by Gaia-Wind Ltd with the latest technology.
This two plated wind turbine is ideal for coastal environments and farms, which are common in Tonga.
This is the second wind project to be maintained and operated by Tonga Power led by TPL’s project delivery manager, Johnny Lillis. Similar to the Nakolo wind turbine project, this is another strategy move to monitor the wind speed in Ha’apai, which could potentially lead to more Wind Turbine installed in the future.
Gaia Wind Turbine in Tonga has shown to generate electricity at a low 3m/s wind speed and reach a maximum capacity of 11kW at 9.5m/s wind speed. The Ha’apai micro-wind project is expected to generate 27,000kWh of electricity each year saving an estimated 7,400 litres of diesel.
The height of the tower is 18 meters, which can be tilt to the ground via electric powered jack system for maintenance during cyclone season. The status of the Gaia Wind turbine is updated every 10 minutes and can be remotely monitored through the Gaia Wind website. The wind turbine at Ha’apai is located at the island of Foa.
ENDS
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