NEARLY 800 households in the Deboyne Islands are now enjoying clean, reliable solar energy thanks to a community-backed initiative that is transforming life after sunset.
The solar installations, part of the Climate-Resilient Infrastructure for Milne Bay project funded by the Australian Government and implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Papua New Guinea, are helping families save money, improve health and safety, support learning, and create more time for social and income-generating activities.
The project has installed almost 800 solar home kits in households and additional kits in eight public institutions across Panaeati and Panapompom Islands. With access to reliable lighting, families can now study, craft, weave, and even make canoes during the evening hours.
Community livelihoods are benefiting, particularly for women working from home, while children and adults can safely study or work at night. The installations have also encouraged community gatherings after dark, strengthening social bonds and enabling better communication.
To ensure sustainability, UNOPS and the solar kit supplier have trained ten local volunteers, known as ‘Solar Champions’, to perform basic maintenance and repairs.
Rhoda Damaia, Head Teacher at Panapompom Elementary School, said:
“Before the solar lights, our children had to sit close to a fire just to read. Now they can do homework at home, and I can see the difference in classroom performance. I can also work at night, and our phones are charged for easy communication.”
Jacob Jeremiah, Head Teacher at Patewan Elementary School, added:
“Before this, I had to use a torch to plan lessons. Now, the light helps me prepare better for the next day. Thank you to everyone who supported us.”
Frank, a community member from Panaeati East, said:
“This kit has changed life for my family and the whole community. We eat dinner with good lighting, children can do homework, and new mothers can change nappies safely at night. Women can also weave mats and baskets for sale after dark. The neighbouring Misima community say our island brightens up like a town at night.”
Gilbert Stanley, one of the Solar Champions, explained:
“They taught us how to maintain the lights and batteries. Now I can help other families if something goes wrong with their kits.”
In addition to lighting, Australia and UNOPS are working together to improve Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in public institutions across the Deboyne Islands, further supporting community health and well-being.
The project demonstrates how solar energy and community engagement can bring tangible improvements to everyday life, lighting the way for a brighter future in Milne Bay.