Alternative energy scenarios for small islands: A case study from Salina Island (Aeolian Islands, Southern Italy)

• Published in: Renewable energy 2012-11, Vol.47, p.135-146
• Main Authors: Andaloro, Antonio Pietro Francesco, Salomone, Roberta, Andaloro, Laura, Briguglio, Nicola, Sparacia, Sergio
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aeolian Islands; Alternative energy sources; Applied sciences; Boats; case studies; climatic factors; cultural values; Economic data; Electric energy; Energy; Energy economics; Energy policy; energy requirements; Energy use; Exact sciences and technology; fuels; General, economic and professional studies; guidelines; Islands; Mediterranean area; Micro-wind power; Natural energy; Photovoltaic power; Renewable energy; Renewable energy sources; Renewable energy sources (RES); Sicily; sustainable development; Tankers; tourists; wind power
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2012.04.021

The Aeolian archipelago is made up of seven main islands situated in the Tyrrhenian sea (Sicily Italy). They represent a suitable scenario for the development of a sustainable energy production system, that could easily be reproduced on other Mediterranean Islands. The fact that these islands depend on the mainland for energy supplies and the high cost of bringing fuel in tanker boats are factors that should strongly encourage the use of renewable energy source technologies. Taking into account the European Commission guidelines, this paper sets out to evaluate potential energy production using photovoltaic and small scale wind power, in order to verify their contribution to overall estimated energy requirements. The estimate of energy productivity was preceded by a study concerning the management measures in force in the Aeolian Islands in order to formulate technical hypotheses in accordance with natural and cultural values protection. The homogeneity of climatic conditions on the seven islands and the similarity of their economies allowed to focus the analysis on the island of Salina. In this way, a whole year's productivity was calculated, with particular attention to the period June – September, when the arrival of tourists brings about a surge in energy consumption. ► It was evaluated the energy production by RES on Salina island (southern Italy). ► The study aims to verify the contribution by RES to overall energy requirement. ► It were conducted 2 simulations based on photovoltaic and wind power technologies. ► It was estimated the productivity of the whole year and of June–September period. ► The formulated scenarios are in accordance with the 2009 guideline approved by Region.