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From early supply to a modern island system
Electricity has been part of Alderney’s story for nearly a century, evolving from a small local supply into the island-wide system we operate today. Our history reflects the wider history of the island itself, shaped by disruption, rebuilding and steady long-term investment.
1930s
Early electricity on the island
Electricity first arrived on Alderney in the 1930s, initially serving small parts of the island and supporting local industry.
Supply was limited and not widely available. Many homes still relied on gas or other sources of lighting, and early electricity systems were small in scale and localised.
In 1938, the Alderney Light and Power Company was established to develop a more structured electricity supply.
1940s
Wartime change and post-war rebuilding
The Second World War marked a major turning point.
During the German occupation, electricity infrastructure was expanded significantly, and much of the island was connected to a wider network for the first time. When islanders returned in 1945, many homes had access to electricity where previously they had not.
However, much of the system required repair and redevelopment. In the years following the war, the electricity supply was operated first by the military and then re-established as a civilian service.
1952
Building a modern electricity system
Alderney Electricity Limited was formed in the early 1950s, taking over responsibility for the island's electricity supply in 1952.
This period saw the construction of a new power station and significant investment in infrastructure, extending electricity access across the island and establishing a reliable 24-hour supply.
By the late 1950s, electricity had become a normal part of everyday life on Alderney, replacing earlier reliance on candles and limited supply systems.
1970s
Ownership and development
Over time, the structure of the company evolved.
Responsibility passed from private operators to a Board-led company with strong links to the States of Alderney, which remains the majority shareholder today.
From the 1970s onwards, the focus shifted towards maintaining and upgrading the system as demand grew and the island's needs changed.
1980s–2000s
Growth, pressure and investment
From the 1980s through to the early 2000s, electricity demand increased significantly as homes, businesses and new industries developed on the island.
This growth required ongoing investment in generation and network infrastructure to ensure the system could meet rising demand.
At times, the system came under pressure, highlighting the importance of maintaining sufficient capacity and planning ahead for future needs.
Late 2000s
Adapting to change
Global energy prices and economic conditions affected the island, while improvements in energy efficiency began to reduce overall demand. This marked a shift from rapid growth to a more balanced and efficient use of electricity.
During this period, Alderney Electricity also expanded its role in fuel supply and energy services, supporting the island's wider energy needs.
Today
A modern, resilient system
Today, we operate a modern, resilient electricity system built on decades of investment and experience.
We continue to generate electricity locally, maintain and upgrade the network, and support the island's energy needs.
At the same time, we are preparing for the next stage in that journey: the transition towards a more sustainable energy system, with increasing use of renewable technologies.
Looking ahead
A system shaped by the island
The history of electricity on Alderney is a story of adaptation.
From small beginnings to a fully connected island, from wartime disruption to long-term stability, the system has evolved to meet the needs of the community it serves.
That same approach continues today: steady investment, careful planning and a focus on keeping the island powered safely and reliably into the future.
Read about our renewables future
Looking ahead
The road to renewables
The story doesn't stop here. We're working towards a more sustainable energy future for Alderney. Find out what that looks like and what we're planning next.
