Future energy for Saipan

I have read the Saipan Tribune report on Dec. 19, 2008 (p.1 and 4) about the $60 million offer by an Indian company to find solutions for the Saipan energy crisis. In this context, I wonder if the CNMI is considering investing in renewable energy sources.

In my view, opting for a gas and diesel engine-based power plant will be a sub-optimal choice because of the uncertainty over fuel prices and environmental concerns and regulations. Saipan possesses optimal natural conditions for solar, wind, biomass and wave-energy. As I know from my own consulting activities and involvement in the WFUNA Millennium Project, such small scale and decentralized renewable energy systems are especially suitable for rather less densely populated locations with tropical climate. Above this, the fuel will come practically free of charge, stable energy prices could be guaranteed and there will be no problems with the Clean Air Act.

The future will lie in renewable energy sources and Saipan would be an ideal place to invest in such solution, which will more than pay off on the mid- to long run. I also assume that it even might be possible to get scientific and technological assistance from other Asian countries, mainland US, Europe or international organizations for pursuing such undertakings. Communities on Saipan could even serve as test beds for energy innovations. And tourists could be attracted to visit the island because of its seminal energy solutions.

Also I would like to inform you about another energy-innovation: mini nuclear power plants. This is not a joke. The garden-shed-sized mini power pants are based on technology developed by scientists of the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico and can provide electricity for up to 20,000 homes. The units are sealed, use only non-weapon’s grade material, are buried underground, have no moving parts and are based on designs that have been proven safe for 50 years. This makes them considerable safe. The first commercial units will be available around 2013 and some island nations and US protectorates have already expressed their interest (sources: http://www.off-grid.net/2008/10/31/micro-nuclear-plants-for-local-power/; http://www.physorg.com/news145561984.html) I would just like to suggest that).

Saipan should really and earnestly consider taking different and non-conventional paths for their energy future. You have to invest anyway, so why not looking for innovative, sustainable, suitable, affordable and long-lasting solutions? But this needs new ways of thinking and policy-making. If other countries and islands can do this, why not Saipan?