Hsi energy Northern Mariana Islands

How does CNMI meet its energy needs?

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) meets most of its energy needs with imported petroleum products. In 2021, refined petroleum products were CNMI’s top import and accounted for 18% of the Commonwealth’s total import costs that year.

Which sectors use the most electricity in the Northern Mariana Islands?

The commercial sector, led by tourism, is the largest electricity-consuming sector in the Northern Mariana Islands. 53 CNMI hotels use electricity for air conditioning, water heating, water purification, and lighting.

Is CNMI planning a large solar energy project?

There have been proposals for several large solar energy projects in the CNMI's Office of Planning and Development in recent years. Currently, a 20-megawatt solar PV facility on Saipan is in development, which will be the first utility-scale solar farm in the territory and will include a battery electric storage system.

How much does CNMI charge per kilowatthour?

In February 2024, CNMI charged approximately 25 cents per kilowatthour for electricity. The CNMI Office of Planning and Development has received proposals for several large solar energy projects, including a 20-megawatt solar photovoltaic (PV) facility on Saipan, which is scheduled to come online in 2025.

How many power plants are there on Saipan?

There are three diesel-fueled power plants on Saipan that are operated by CUC. 40 power plants in total supply electricity to the Northern Mariana Islands, with one each on Tinian and Rota.

Does CNMI impose a fuel surcharge on electricity?

Electricity customers in CNMI pay a varying fuel surcharge that depends on the price of diesel fuel. In May 2020, the fuel surcharge was at a low of 8 cents per kilowatthour. However, it rose to a high of 43 cents per kilowatthour by July 2022. As of February 2024, CNMI's fuel surcharge was approximately 25 cents per kilowatthour.