How can oirep help Tonga's remote island communities?

However, significant needs and opportunities exist to further expand renewable energy systems on outer islands. Less tangible, but also important is the role played by OIREP in consolidating Tonga’s social contract with remote island dwelling communities, by allowing for enhanced and more reliable access to electricity.

How did the oirep project impact Tonga?

The project achieved its proposed impact, in terms of helping Tonga reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuel for power generation with OIREP assets estimated to have reduced diesel usage by 0.5 million litres annually. Central to the project outcome was the provision of on-grid and off-grid generation solar power at reduced cost.

Why did oirep work with Tonga Power Limited?

OIREP’s on-grid work was always a matter of laying the foundations for further investment in renewables and enjoyed the ease of working through one implementing partner – Tonga Power Limited – who were incentivised to help ensure the program succeeded given they will manage all on-grid assets post-project.

When will Ecos operate oirep systems in Tonga?

Currently, it appears that ECOS with MEIDECC support will operate and be responsible for OIREP systems commencing 1 January 2024 through until at least 30 June 2025, when Tonga’s new electricity concession contract negotiations will have been concluded.

Is TPL the most profitable SOE in Tonga?

As Tonga’s most profitable SOE, there is good reason to believe that TPL has the commercial capacity, technical capacity and financial incentive to sustain, maintain and further develop OIREP assets beyond the life of the project given the revenue they can generate.

Why are climate adaptation measures so important in Tonga?

As one of the world’s most climate vulnerable countries, climate adaptation measures are seen within the government and by the people of Tonga as being both urgent and of critical importance. This is based in three key factors.