HOURS into the gasoline line, the only movement was the occasional lurch forward of a dozen car lengths. Friends had sent me pictures while they waited almost six hours in silence, frustrated and anxious after Typhoon Sinlaku.
I believe minutes pass faster when you are talking instead of counting. I initiated conversations, turning our attention to the matter at hand — cars, gasoline, electric vehicles, solar charging — making the wait a little more bearable.
Just a few years ago, spotting an electric vehicle or EV on the road was a novelty. Today, there are nearly 60 million EVs in use globally — from luxury sedans to work trucks and family SUVs. As governments push for greener transportation and automakers invest billions, many drivers are asking a critical question: Is now the time to make the switch?
Are the Northern Mariana Islands ideal for solar EV charging?
The CNMI enjoys year-round tropical sun. Located at approximately 15°N latitude, the islands receive about 5–6 kWh/m²/day of solar irradiation — among the highest in the United States (comparable to desert regions such as the Sahara).
High gasoline and electricity costs: Gas is often $5–7 per gallon due to shipping. Electricity is diesel-generated, costing $0.30–0.40 per kWh — among the highest rates in the U.S. Solar becomes cost-competitive immediately.
Short driving distances: Saipan is about 12 miles long, and Tinian about 10 miles. Daily commutes are rarely over 30 miles. A small solar array — or even portable solar charging — could cover most daily driving needs.
The CNMI also offers abundant unshaded parking, open land, and large coastal areas, making it suitable for solar carports or portable panel deployment.
Solar and EV integration also supports energy independence. Many homes already use rooftop solar, so adding EV charging is a natural extension.
In tourism, EVs powered by solar could be used for rental cars, shuttle vans, and resort transport, supporting eco-tourism branding.
Unlike colder regions, the CNMI has no winter range loss. Temperatures remain between 75–85°F year-round, allowing EV batteries to operate efficiently.
Real-world examples
A 1 kW solar carport (about 4–5 panels) in the CNMI can produce roughly 5–6 kWh per day — enough to drive a Tesla Model 3 about 20–25 miles. That covers the average daily commute for many residents.
A 5 kW home solar system can generate 25–30 kWh per day, enough to fully charge an EV and power household appliances.
Portable 400W solar chargers could also be practical. In Saipan’s sun, a system like this could produce around 2 kWh per day—adding roughly 8–10 miles of range.
Challenges (not dealbreakers, but hurdles)
Typhoon risk: The CNMI sits in Typhoon Alley. Strong winds can damage solar panels, carports, and portable systems. Durable mounting and storage are essential.
Salt corrosion: Ocean air accelerates corrosion. Equipment must use marine-grade materials and sealing.
Limited EV availability: Very few EVs are available locally. Vehicles must be imported, often at high cost and with limited service support.
Grid limitations: The local grid is diesel-based and unstable in some areas. Off-grid solar systems may be more practical.
Upfront cost: Shipping solar systems and EVs increases costs by 20–30%, though long-term savings can offset this.
Lack of charging infrastructure: Public charging stations are extremely limited.
EVs in the CNMI: ideal, but with caveats
For homeowners with solar access, the CNMI is one of the most favorable places in the U.S. for solar-powered EV charging. High fuel costs, abundant sunlight, and short driving distances create strong economic incentives.
For tourism operators, solar carports at airports or resorts could be a major selling point for eco-friendly transportation.
For renters or apartment dwellers, portable solar charging may be more viable than in most parts of the U.S., given the consistent sunlight.
The electric vehicle is not yet a perfect replacement for every gas-powered car. But as technology improves and infrastructure expands, the disadvantages will likely shrink.
New York’s new EV rule
New York State recently tightened its timeline for phasing out internal combustion engine vehicle sales while expanding EV infrastructure and incentives. The state aims to reach 850,000 zero-emission vehicles by 2025 and 100% zero-emission new light-duty vehicle sales by 2035.
As state policies accelerate the transition, many drivers still ask a familiar question: Are EVs right for me right now?
New York’s rule changes the equation — but the broader reality remains: the gas station era is gradually approaching its end.
How about the CNMI?
BETTY BAI
Power Young Publishing
Saipan Chinese News
