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Makemo Energy Project

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Aug 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Makemo Energy Project (French Polynesia)

Weather…

The Makemo Energy Project is a pioneering initiative to transition Pacific islands to renewable energy. The solar farm uses bifacial panels that capture light from both sides, increasing efficiency. The battery system uses lithium-ion technology, allowing for stable grid operation. The project includes a smart grid management system that balances supply and demand. It has reduced electricity costs for residents by 30% since 2019. Maintenance is performed by a local team trained by French engineers. The project also supports a desalination plant that provides fresh water. In 2021, it won the Pacific Energy Leaders Award. Plans exist to expand capacity to 2 MW by 2025. The project has boosted local energy independence and resilience.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	28	28	27	27	26	26	26	26	27	27
Rain mm	170	130	103	85	76	59	33	28	38	79	97	159

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Makemo Energy Project is a pioneering facility combining wind and solar power on a remote atoll. It serves as a model for renewable energy in French Polynesia and reduces dependence on diesel generators.

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Visiting

The facility is usually not open to the public, but the wind turbines and solar panels are well visible from the island's main roads. A visit may be arranged in advance through the local community administration.

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Where to view it

The best view of the wind turbines is from the ring road that circles the lagoon. From the beaches in the north of the island, the solar panels are seen glinting in the distance.

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Local products

No direct energy products are for sale, but the island is known for its coconut production. Local artisans craft souvenirs from coconut fiber and shells.

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Active season

The facility generates power year-round, but wind energy is strongest during the trade winds from May to October. Solar radiation peaks in the summer months, so solar production is highest then.

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Nearby

Combine the visit with a lagoon cruise to explore the pristine underwater world of the atoll. The traditional villages on Makemo also offer insights into Polynesian island life.