Tuvalu

Tuvalu’s National Energy Strategy targets solar PV as the backbone of the country’s power system, supported by BESS and, in the long run, green hydrogen. The small scale of its energy grid, coupled with high irradiation and uniform load profiles, makes the integration of hydrogen technologies viable for both stationary and mobile use cases.

Pilot concepts include solar-to-hydrogen microgrids, green hydrogen-powered backup systems for disaster recovery, and maritime transport fuel alternatives. These initiatives support energy self-sufficiency and directly contribute to Tuvalu’s climate adaptation goals. Tuvalu also aims to position itself as a “clean energy laboratory for small island states,” actively participating in regional hydrogen roadmaps through platforms like PCREEE and IRENA’s SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

Tuvalu’s energy policy is shaped by its extreme vulnerability to climate change and its dependence on imported fossil fuels. The country’s National Energy Policy (NEP) and Energy Strategic Action Plan (2021–2030) [1] commit to achieving 100% renewable electricity generation by 2025, primarily through solar PV and battery storage systems. This policy also positions green hydrogen as a long-term enabler for energy security, especially for maritime transport and backup systems in outer islands.

Tuvalu’s renewable infrastructure remains limited but is growing through targeted donor investments:

• Solar PV: National installed capacity is approximately 1.25 MW, with recent projects in Funafuti and ongoing rollouts on outer islands. Solar penetration is expected to reach 25% of electricity generation by 2025.

• Battery Energy Storage: The ADB-supported 2 MWh BESS in Funafuti, operational since December 2024, stabilizes the grid and enables higher solar shares. [1]

• Hybrid Systems: PV–diesel hybrids with small-scale storage are deployed across islands such as Nukufetau and Nanumea, reducing diesel reliance by over 50–60%.

• Wind/Ocean: While studies suggest limited wind potential, Tuvalu continues to explore wave and ocean thermal energy options for long-term diversification.

• Grid Readiness: Funafuti’s mini-grid is being strengthened for potential electrolyser integration, and ports are being considered for hydrogen refueling hubs supporting inter-island maritime mobility.

Although no electrolyser installations are yet present, Tuvalu’s hybrid microgrids and centralized solar–BESS setups provide a viable platform for future solar-to-hydrogen systems. Promising pilot concepts include floatable PV-electrolysers at Funafuti port, both for backup power and intermittent maritime use. 

Tuvalu is in the early stages of conceptualizing hydrogen pilots structured around island resilience:

• Funafuti Port Pilot: Preliminary studies are underway to co-locate solar–electrolyser systems for back-up power and port operations, targeting supply reliability during emergencies and disasters. [1]

• Outer Island Microgrid H ₂ Generators: Plans include deploying small-scale electrolysis to produce hydrogen for dual-use energy storage, replacing diesel generators on outer islands. [2]