Tuvaluan workers help install a solar array on the roof of the Tuvalu Government Building, part of an Infratec-delivered project last year. The company has since been awarded an Asian Development Bank contract to provide renewable energy systems to the Cook Islands.

A South Canterbury-based business has signed an Asian Development Bank contract to supply solar/battery electricity systems in the Cook Islands.

The hybrid systems, or mini-grids, will be installed on Atiu, Mangaia, Mauke and Mitiaro islands and will connect to the existing grid.

The project is being delivered by Infratec, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NETcon Limited, an Alpine Energy company.

Infratec has installed sustainable renewable energy systems around the world, from Afghanistan to Tuvalu, to New Zealand.

Infratec general manager Luke van Zeller said the project, which combines solar PV and battery storage, would provide the islands' residents with cheaper electricity and a more reliable power supply.

The systems have been designed to supply nearly all the electricity requirements of each island. Currently, the islands' electricity is supplied solely by diesel generators.

"About 95 per cent of grid electricity supplying each island will be generated by solar panels. Any excess power created when demand is low will be stored in batteries for later use."

Back-up generators have also been included into the energy mix for when solar generation is unable to meet peak demand due to weather conditions.

Mr van Zeller said the system would reduce diesel consumption by about 360,000 litres annually and will remove about 960 tonnes of CO2 emissions a year.

"Our solar generation and hybrid projects are designed to deliver lasting benefits for the whole community. This includes working alongside the community to build their knowledge and skill-base so they can operate and maintain the systems long-term.

"Our work with the local island communities is a crucial aspect to the success of the project."

The contract was welcomed by the Cook Islands government, which wants to refocus the nation's energy generation.

"The Government is extremely pleased to partner with NETcon to progress on its policy objective of transforming the electricity needs of the country towards 100 per cent renewable energy by 2020 and the signing of this contract is a significant milestone in this journey," Office of the Prime Minister for the Cook Islands chief of staff Elizabeth Wright-Koteka said.

Infratec was this month announced as a finalist in the small enterprise, global operator category of the Champion Canterbury Business Awards 2016.

The winners will be announced on September 21.