Inter-island transport in Fiji powered by renewable energy

Purpose - During April-July 2013 the sailing cargo vessel Okeanos conducted a transport research project in Fiji. The vessel sailed regularly between Gau, Suva and Kadavu where transport data were collected. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the transport need in the islands and how a smaller, cheap sailing vessel would perform and meet that need and if it can be economically sustainable. Design/methodology/approach - Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji and the Ministry of Public Utilities, Transport and Works, issued a temporary safety certificate and verbally agreed on Okeanos working in a non-commercial capacity for four months. The preparations allowed for 31 days continuous traffic in Kadavu and Lomaiviti area. Findings - Okeanos carried 22 tons cargo and 55 passengers during 31 days. The trial shows that sailing time affects the running costs and make route planning essential for a sailing vessel. The results indicate that a sailing operation can be economically sustainable for routes that allow at least two return sails a week. To expand the operation to tourist-passengers willing to pay higher fees would be a more sustainable alternative. Simulations in the appendix with fictive values for transporting goods and passengers illustrate the feasibility of various options. Research limitations/implications - Limited permits and licenses allowed only for a short trial. Permits also prohibited the trial to engage in full commercial capacity. Originality/value - The study provides a transport trial with measurable outcomes. It can justify further and more extensive trials with alternative transport methods to remote islands and villages.