Restoring Power in Woleai: A Community-Led Effort with Strong Partnerships

Local Woleai community welcome guests.

For years, the residents of Woleai have watched their solar power system fall silent.

What once provided reliable electricity to this remote atoll in Yap State now sits in disrepair, leaving the community dependent on costly and unreliable diesel fuel. But that’s about to change.

Woleai, part of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), is working to restore its solar energy system through a collaborative effort that brings together local leadership, government support, and international partnerships. Like many remote island communities, Woleai faces challenges in maintaining stable and affordable electricity due to its location and limited infrastructure.

A solar power system was installed years ago to address these issues, but it has since become non-operational. Now, with support from the FSM Government, Yap State Public Service Corporation (YSPSC), the Pacific Community (SPC),and funding from the Australian Government, the system is being brought back online.

Traditional thatched homes on the island.
Women collecting firewood for cooking.
Passengers from Woleai bringing supplies from the island.