Reliable solar power for a Pacific commercial hub
On Kiritimati Island in the Republic of Kiribati, a new commercial centre was developed to support local businesses, government offices, and community operations. Frequent grid outages and dependence on imported diesel fuel made energy reliability a daily challenge, restricting productivity and adding to operational costs.
Rainbow Power Company partnered with Kiribati Green Energy Services (KGES) to deliver a fully independent solar power system for the site. The project provides clean, dependable energy for multiple tenants within the complex and demonstrates how off-grid solutions can strengthen economic activity in remote island nations.
Project Overview
The Kiritimati Commercial Complex is one of several regional partnerships between Rainbow Power Company and Kiribati Green Energy Services. Over the past decade, the two organisations have collaborated on numerous solar and hybrid power projects throughout the
Pacific, combining Australian technical expertise with local implementation.
For this installation, RPC designed a 20 kW off-grid solar-battery system to provide 24-hour electricity to the multi-use facility. The system integrates advanced storage and SMA inverter technology, supplying reliable power to offices, retail units, and shared community spaces.
System details:
- System type: Off-grid solar with battery storage and diesel backup
- Solar capacity: 20 kW
- Battery capacity: 69 kWh BYD lithium
- Inverter capacity: 16 kW SMA system
- Backup: Diesel generator for extended low-sunlight periods
System Design and Integration
The installation uses high-quality, corrosion-resistant solar components designed to perform in coastal environments. The solar array produces power for daytime operations and charges the 69 kWh BYD lithium battery bank, which supports the site overnight and during cloudy conditions.
A compact diesel generator is installed as a backup, automatically engaging only when battery levels fall below a defined threshold. This design greatly reduces fuel use while ensuring that essential systems such as refrigeration, communications, and lighting remain uninterrupted.
Rainbow Power Company provided full design, engineering, and supply, while Kiribati Green Energy Services managed local installation and ongoing support. The project forms part of a broader strategy to build regional capacity in solar installation and maintenance, ensuring long-term energy security for island communities.
What They Said
“Kiritimati’s commercial complex shows how local energy independence can drive regional growth. Our partnership with Kiribati Green Energy Services combines technology and training to ensure the benefits of renewable power stay within the community.”
— Paul O’Reilly, International Business Development Manager, Rainbow Power Company
Outcomes
The solar system now delivers consistent, low-cost electricity for businesses and public services across the complex. By reducing reliance on diesel, it has cut operating costs, improved air quality, and reduced generator noise in the surrounding area.
The partnership with Kiribati Green Energy Services has also contributed to local employment and skills development, creating a foundation for further solar expansion across the island.
Project Suitability
This project demonstrates how small-scale commercial hubs in remote locations can achieve energy security through modular off-grid solar systems. The Kiritimati Commercial Complex model is well-suited to retail, administrative, or community facilities seeking reliable and sustainable power without grid dependency.
Interested in renewable power for commercial or government projects?
📞 Call +61 2 6689 1430 or email team@rpc.com.au
