IN a proactive move to address power challenges in regions where costs exceed income generated from electricity sales, PNG Power has invested in community service initiatives.
Despite ongoing efforts to tackle operational issues, the power utility has prioritised its obligations to communities, recognising the crucial role electricity plays in fostering growth, development, and quality of life.
One significant investment is the installation of a 1MW generator in Kerema, a provincial center poised for growth with the impending Papua LNG Project development.
Kerema has faced prolonged outages due to breakdowns in its power station, impacting local businesses, schools, the hospital, and residents.
The K1.1 million investment in the generator aims to provide a reliable power supply to support the community until the construction of a solar project, supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), commences in 2024. The genset is already on-site, with PNG Power’s technical team set to undertake installation works for commissioning in December.
Meanwhile, in Maprik, a burgeoning economic hub in Central Sepik experiencing rapid growth, PNG Power is taking steps to meet the rising demand for electricity. A containerised CAT generator, purchased by PNG Power, is expected to arrive on-site by the end of November. Civil and associated works are already underway to prepare for commissioning in the first week of December.
Additionally, Maprik is earmarked for a future solar hybrid model, with construction on the solar facility set to commence in 2024.
These initiatives reflect PNG Power’s commitment to providing effective electricity delivery to communities, particularly in areas experiencing growth and development. The utility’s forward-looking approach not only addresses immediate power challenges but also aligns with sustainable energy solutions, exemplified by the planned solar projects in both Kerema and Maprik.
Looking ahead, PNG Power has outlined plans to implement similar initiatives in other smaller townships across the country in the coming year.
