At present, the island gets its electricity almost entirely from diesel generators. As it becomes greener, the electricity demand for households, companies and traffic will be gradually covered by renewables. Also, the electric fleet will be powered entirely by green renewable electricity.
The project will foster Astypalea’s clean energy transition by establishing renewable energy infrastructure, such as wind turbines and solar panels, that will gradually replace the ageing fossil fuel-based generator. Taking advantage of the island’s great untapped green energy potential, renewable energy sources will fully cover both the daily electricity requirements and the additional demand arising from the adoption of e-mobility.
As part of this transition, advanced energy storage technologies will be implemented to ensure energy autonomy. The island’s electricity grid will be upgraded to ensure smooth transition to renewables and to improve energy efficiency for the local community. In the long run, Astypalea will become a model island for emission-free mobility, green and smart living and sustainable development, showing the path to a greener future for the non-interconnected islands.
Development of a hybrid energy system
The island of Astypalea will become completely energy sufficient through a state-of-the-art hybrid RES system that is designed to prioritize the supply of the integrated electric vehicle charging network on the island.
Development of smart charging network
As the backbone of this green transition, the fundamental transformation of the island’s conventional transport system will be based on a wide and smart charging infrastructure network. More specifically, private and semi-public charging points will be installed throughout the island and mainly at private residences, car rental agencies, taxi businesses and vehicle sharing stations.
Additionally, to ensure the flexible operations of the planned ridesharing service all around the island and at any time, fast-charging infrastructure will also be created. Publicly accessible charging points scattered across the island will complete the network, allowing for easy access to charging infrastructure for all electric vehicles circulating on the island, including beach spots.
Plans for introducing green energy
A hybrid energy system will replace the existing diesel generators in two phases, as defined by the island’s energy system operator (HEDNO)»
The role of HEDNO
The mission of the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator S.A. (HEDNO) is to accelerate the green transition of the Greek islands focusing mainly on maximizing the penetration of RES. Consequently, HEDNO is implementing special pilot projects, such as the project for the island of Astypalea, soon to become a smart and sustainable island by achieving zero-emissions mobility. More specifically, HEDNO is contributing by:
- Upgrading the electricity network to maximize RES penetration in the energy system.
- Rolling-out smart meters for 100% of the grid connection points.
- Working closely with all parties involved to meet the technical specifications for the integration of charging points to the grid and balancing energy needs with RES production.
- Constructing all necessary grid infrastructure for the connection of electric vehicles’ charging points.
Development of the Astypalea hybrid system aims to:
