The influence of islandness on energy policy and electricity supply

Despite global power reform, electricity is still provided in many islands by vertically integrated monopoly utilities. The aim of this research is to identify the impact and influence of 'islandness' on electricity policy decisions. This multi-disciplinary, exploratory study uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to explore islandness through such attributes as scale, remoteness, complexity, adaptive capacity and the small-scale syndrome of totality/monopoly/intimacy. The research includes a case study of Prince Edward Island, Canada, whereby the energy institution is examined through interviews with key informants. The study concludes that negotiated political solutions rather than market solutions offer more promising alternatives to solving energy issues in small islands. Recommendations include: encouraging alternative energy technologies given already high electricity costs; providing top level ministerial support for energy portfolio; implementing clear, comprehensive energy policy with sustainability targets enforced by legislation; and enhancing energy literacy through broadly based public debate and truly innovative energy policy.

Keywords: islands, energy policy, electricity, politics, society, sustainability, Prince Edward Island, energy literacy.