Samoa renewable energy projects take shape
Public-private partnerships are the immediate future for power generation in Samoa, with the state-owned power generator depending on local power producers to generate electricity for the market.
Power costs remain high for the Samoan public as regional experts from institutions such as the Asian Development Bank emphasise that simply adding more solar panels is no longer the solution.
The Electric Power Corporation(EPC) says work is moving forward on renewable energy projects, helping Samoa reduce reliance on imported diesel.
EPC said Sun Pacific’s investment reflects a shift among the country’s independent power producers (IPPs) toward combined solar and storage facilities.
Experts view public-private partnerships as essential vehicles to attract international finance, private sector innovation and operational efficiencies, but stated there is a need de-risk independent power producers.
Organisations such as the Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative are working directly with the Samoan government to draft clear renewable energy investment plans and transparent power purchase agreements to securely attract private capital.
The Samoa Observer reported that the country is stepping up its transition to renewable energy, with Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa ‘Ale-Molio’o saying the country is working to reduce its dependence on imported fuel and build a more resilient electricity system.
The University of New South Wales study found Pacific countries could save almost US$700 million a year by reducing their reliance on imported fossil fuels. The Samoa Observer reported in August that the study also found fossil fuels cost Pacific countries between 10 and 25 per cent of their economic output.
A recent survey by the Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Industry highlighted a major roadblock, local businesses face immense financial strains due to a lack of direct government subsidies or concessional financing for transition initiatives, such as commercial rooftop solar.
Financial constraints on Samoa’s Electric Power Corporation (EPC) have historically limited essential infrastructure upgrades, making the grid vulnerable.
On Upolu, Apia Techsolar’s 5-megawatt solar farm and 5-megawatt-hour battery system at Fiaga are taking shape, EPC said.
On Savaii, construction is continuing at Salelologa on FES Ltd. ‘s 4-megawatt solar farm and 5-megawatt-hour battery system. EPC said the project will help reduce diesel reliance while bringing cleaner energy closer to the island’s homes and businesses.
At Faleolo, Sun Pacific Energy Ltd. added a battery system with 2 megawatts of power capacity and 4 megawatt-hours of storage to support its 5.5-megawatt solar farm. EPC described it as the next stage of its renewable energy partnership with the company.