On Wednesday, 4 April 2024, a new solar energy project was launched that will bring light to remote villages in Madang Province’s Rai Coast District.
The Pawa Bilong Kirapim Raikos Project will provide basic lighting and USB charging services for homes and community facilities such as schools, churches, aid posts and a health centre, and solar streetlights to light up villages.
Australian High Commissioner, John Feakes, joined Minister for Labour and Employment, the Hon Kessy Sawang MP, Governor for Madang, the Hon Ramsey Pariwa, and the Rai Coast District Development Authority in Madang to officially launch the project.
“Australia is committed to increasing access to clean and reliable energy, especially for rural and remote communities,” said High Commissioner Feakes.
“By working closely with our partners, we are bringing solar energy systems and streetlights to some of the most remote parts of Madang Province,” he continued. “Reliable energy access can improve economic opportunities, enhance safety and wellbeing, and support people’s livelihoods.”
Australia is partnering with the Rai Coast District Development Authority to deliver approximately 12,000 solar home systems, 22 solar power systems for community buildings, and 750 streetlights across 27 wards in the district.
The Rai Coast District Development Authority has contributed PGK1 million to the renewable energy project.
To support the sustainability of the new solar kits and streetlights, 72 community members will be trained as Solar Champions to assist with installations and provide ongoing support. In addition, a Solar Hub will be established to provide advice, repairs, and spare parts for the new solar products. These initiatives will ensure communities will have continued access to power in the long term.
Increasing access to energy services in the Rai Coast District will have a profound impact on people’s lives. It will improve living standards, enable government and civil society to deliver improved education and health services at community level, and improve safety and security at night.
Australia is committed to working in partnership to improve access to clean and reliable energy and help Papua New Guinea meet its ambitious electrification targets.
Minister for Labour and Employment and Member for Rai Coast, Hon Kessy Sawang MP, Governor of Madang Hon Ramsey Pariwa and High Commissioner John Feakes during the launch of Pawa Bilong Kirapim Raikos solar energy project in Madang.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100