By SEPKOLIN WALNE
THE Napanapa solar power project marks another milestone in the development of our nation, says State Enterprise Minister William Duma.
He said this during the project represented a strategic shift toward energy resilience, sustainability, and long-term national energy security.
He said the 6MW (megawatts) from Napanapa was an important addition to the 159MW installed power, or maximum output that can be produced in Port Moresby.
“The benefit will be significant for nearby residents and businesses in the economic corridor surrounding the Motukea Port,” Mr Duma said during the commissioning of the solar power project.
“I would like to commend Napanapa Renewable Energy Ltd and PNG Power Ltd for entering into what I regard as a fairer and more commercial agreement for PNG Power Ltd than several other arrangements PNG Power has entered into,” Minister Duma said.
Minister Duma acknowledged the Hiri-Koiari customary landowners for their cooperation and constructive partnership with developers.
“As we develop and install more renewable power generation infrastructure, we are seeing ever-increasing market demand,” he said.
“A core component of the Marape Government’s strategy to shift toward renewable and cleaner energy sources includes an initiative to reduce energy reference pricing away from heavy fuel oil costs.
“This has reached highs of around K1.59 kWh, and we want to pull this down to a target of 45 toea per kWh.
“This power facility is very important in the face of the challenges we face today. The generation and availability of electricity are central to the economic growth of the country.
“But, without a diverse mix of energy sources, our country will struggle.
“That is why expanding access to solar energy production is an important part of national strategies to insulate PNG from shocks and to harness our natural resources,” Minister Duma said.