Improving the sustainable operation of a world heritage site: Increasing energy efficiency and implementing a renewable energy system on aldabra atoll, seychelles

Abstract

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aldabra Atoll is an important conservation and research area but its remoteness makes management a major logistical challenge. Using diesel generators for electricity resulted in high fuel and transport costs, and was environmentally unsustainable. In 2008, the Seychelles Islands Foundation started investigating ways to increase energy efficiency, and developing a renewable energy system; aiming to reduce operational costs. Following an energy audit, renewable energy options and their applicability were assessed, alongside research into energy efficient measures. Findings were subsequently implemented, and a 25 kW p hybrid photovoltaic-diesel energy system was set up. Demand reductions were a prerequisite for successful implementation of the renewable energy system. Energy efficient measures reduced electricity demand by 57 per cent. 38,171 kWh of solar electricity was generated in the first year of operation, covering 94 per cent of the station’s new demand. This has avoided a total of 97,523 kg CO 2 per year. Since implementation of the photovoltaic system, diesel demand has decreased by 97 per cent and operational savings of up to €68,000 are projected, resulting in system payback in only three years. Investments into both energy efficiency and renewable energies are required for environmental and financial sustainability.