Salutations:
Tikotiko Vakaturaga ei Lalagavesi na Nodra
iTikotiko na Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Cakau;
The Korean Ambassador, His Excellency, Mr.
Kim Jin Hyung;
Honourable Ministers;
Chairman of the Energy Fiji Limited Board, Mr.
Rokoseru Nabalarua;
Senior Government officials; and
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Introduction
Ni Sa bula vina’a, and good morning to you all. It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to officiate at these two monumental milestones in Taveuni:
The commissioning of the Mua Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Station with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Project; and
The Grid Extension and House-wiring Project from Welagi to Naselesele Village.These achievements are not just about energy
infrastructure; they are about lighting up lives, empowering communities, and creating a brighter, more sustainable future for Fiji.
Appreciation of Assistance
I thank the Korean Government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) for their financial and technical support towards the Mua Solar PV Project. This is part of an ongoing partnership and collaboration with the Korean Government in the different sectors of our economy.
Strategic Priority
Our new National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050 outline Government’s priority and commitment to ensuring that every Fijian has access to reliable, clean, and sustainable electricity.
The commissioning of the solar photovoltaic project and the grid extension today is a significant step to realising this vision.
These projects are also aligned to our global commitments for a 30% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) by 2030 as outlined in our National Determined Contribution (NDC) 2017-2030.
Under our Low Emissions Development Strategy (LEDS), we are also working towards a target of net zero emissions by 2050.
The Coalition Government is committed to ensuring equitable and sustainable development in Fiji and that is the very reason we are all today in the Garden Island of Fiji, Taveuni, and where the East meets the West.
Mua Solar PV Power Station Project
The Mua Solar PV Power Station with BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) was initiated in 2018 through collaboration between the Government, KOICA and Energy Fiji Limited (EFL).
The project has a total installed capacity of 1.065 Mega Watt (MW) of Solar PV panels with a 0.5MW/1MWhr battery energy storage system at a total project design and construction cost of FJ$6.75 million.
A total of FJ$5.8 million was funded by KOICA for the construction of the plant and Government contributed an additional FJ$0.95 million towards the design and construction of the project.
I was reliably informed that the project faced numerous challenges, including delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and that the system was completed and energized in early 2024.
This Mua Solar PV Power Station with BESS Project will supplement the Somosomo Hydro Project and will elevate Taveuni to be the first island in Fiji that will have access to 100% renewable and clean energy supply.
Similar Projects
Additionally, in partnership with the Korean Government through KOICA and funding from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), a similar project is in progress in Ovalau.
A 4 Mega Watt (MW) Agro-photovoltaic project with battery energy storage system is currently being constructed which will be the first of its kind in Fiji and in the region.
One of the benefits of the project is that the shade of the Solar PV panels will provide an area for the community to plant vegetables and graze livestock. The EFL is expected to save around 50% from cost of fuel consumption in Ovalau once
the project comes online.
Weilagi-Naselesele Grid Extension
The Weilagi-Naselesele Grid extension and House Wiring Project is another transformative project in Taveuni, with a total investment of FJ$4.29 million. A total of FJ$3.94 million was invested into grid extension and FJ$355,000 for house-
wiring works.
This extension now connects 130 residential houses, a school and a number of small businesses, benefiting approximately 650 residents. Beyond providing power, this project will provide the people of Weilagi and Naselesele new opportunities and provide a platform for growth and prosperity.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the Coalition Government plans to extend the grid from Wairiki to Taveuni South and to Navakawau and similarly to extend to Lavena and Bouma up North. As you all know, these are capital intensive investments and will take time for us to implement.
Brighter Future for Taveuni and Fiji
Today marks a significant step forward in our collective journey toward progress. These projects embody our shared vision of a Fiji where every individual, regardless of where they live, has access and also experience the life-changing benefits of electricity.
To the people of Taveuni, the commissioning of clean and sustainable energy project presents all of you an opportunity to rise, grow, and thrive. This is your moment to achieve greater things for your families, your communities, and your future.
Conclusion
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Korea, EFL, Engineers, Contractors, and the people of Taveuni who have made these achievements possible.
Your dedication and hard work have lit up lives and inspired hope for a brighter tomorrow.
It is with great pleasure, that I officially declare the Mua Solar Photovoltaic Power Station with BESS and the Weilagi-Naselesele Grid Extension and House-wiring Projects open.
May they bring light, progress, and prosperity to all.
Vinaka vakalevu, dhanyavaad, and thank you. May God bless us all, and may God