A comparative study of energy security in Okinawa prefecture and the state of Hawaii

Abstract

The energy securities of Okinawa Prefecture and the State of Hawaii, both of which are isolated islands in the Pacific Ocean, were studied by comparison. While both islands depend on thermal power for more than 80% of their energy needs, power generation methods differ between them. The cost of energy supply in Okinawa is low because electrical energy is produced primarily by coal-fired power stations, whereas in Hawaii it is extremely high because oil, which is extensively used for various purposes such as airplanes and vehicles, is the energy source for most thermoelectric power stations. At present, Hawaii is installing renewable energy facilities as a test case for a next-generation energy-mix in the USA. On the other hand, Okinawa prefers energy security and low costs, similar to the strategy of Japan as a whole, since Japan is at high risk of natural disasters.