BY LORETTA B MANELE
Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has reaffirmed its vision to transform the country’s energy sector.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele voiced this at his press conference yesterday.
He said they are doing so through ambitious investments in renewable energy, regulatory reform and sustainable infrastructure.
Manele stated these efforts aim to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, expand energy access, and promote economic resilience.
He said the Renewable Energy Roadmap targets a full transition of the Honiara electricity grid to 100% renewable energy by 2030, aligning with GNUT’s long-term sustainability goals.
Manele expressed that in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the government is accelerating renewable energy generation projects, installing battery storage systems to stabilize supply and expanding renewable infrastructure in both urban and rural areas.
“These measures are critical to building an energy-secure future for Solomon Islands and reducing carbon emissions in line with our global climate commitments.”
In relation, Manele also spoke about the Tina River Hydro project.
He expressed that GNUT remains committed to completing the Tina River Hydro project by 2028.
Manele said his government has approved the additional financing of US$75 million required for the project and has already secured most of this financing.
“Tina River Hydropower is a cornerstone of our national energy reform.”
Manele furthered that they are implementing programs and activities aligned with goals of; increasing electricity access in both urban and rural areas by 2030, reducing electricity tariffs by 25% by 2028 to alleviate cost burdens on households and businesses, diversifying energy sources to include solar, hydro and other renewables and introducing fiscal policies to lower Solomon Power’s operational costs and incentivize private sector investment in energy infrastructure.
He noted that these measures will boost the energy sector coverage and efficiency, stimulate economic activity and empower local communities.
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