MORE than 200 families are being targeted to transform their electricity supplies from diesel generators to other sustainable forms.
This was highlighted by Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, NDMO and Meteorological Services Jone Usamate while speaking at the Project for Introduction of Hybrid power generation system in Pacific island countries seminar in Suva today.
“Our plan will be to provide hybrid systems to most of these communities that will supply 24-hours of reliable electricity. In addition, EFL is also in the process of installing a 5MW grid connect solar PV in Nadi,” Mr Usamate said.
He said the seminar would set the platform to disseminate and share knowledge on the development of hybrid power generations.
“We need to learn from each other and continue to share the experience to improve and enhance our commitment to our people,” Mr Usamate said.
He said the assistance from the Japanese government and JICA on this project was a timely one because it would provide the impetus towards Fiji’s transition to a more reliable and sustainable power supply aligning to our national development plans and targets.
“Another milestone achievement of this project includes the setting up of a Regional Training Centre at the EFL control centre in Lautoka. The establishment of this training centre will complement and enhance our position to be the regional hub on research and development of hybrid power technologies in the Pacific.”
The project, which began in 2017, is expected to be completed in June 2022 and covers five Pacific island countries, including Fiji, Kiribati, Federated States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands and Tuvalu.
