IFC Supports Papua New Guinea’s RE Plans

• IFC and PNG Power Limited have signed an agreement to deliver reliable and low-cost power to its remote and outer island centres with the help of renewable energy
• Together they will identify ways to mobilize private investment, enhance renewable energy supply and boost power generation
• A pilot project for rooftop solar is being developed for businesses in capital Port Moresby to initially cover 2% of peak demand electricity
• Road shows and using traditional means of communication as live theatre will be used as mediums to reach out to masses in remote areas to make them aware about renewable energy

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has signed an agreement withPapua New Guinea's electricity utility, PNG Power Limited to help the country deliver reliable and low-cost power to its remote and outer island centers, all those areas not connected to the grid. IFC is being supported in this endeavour by the Australian and New Zealand Governments under the Papua New Guinea Partnership.

IFC will help PNG Power identify ways to stimulate private investment and expertise to boost power generation, including enhancing the use of renewable energy resources as solar, wind, biomass and gas.

World Bank Group member IFC is also working on a pilot rooftop solar PV program for businesses in Papua New Guinea's capital, Port Moresby. The project aims to initially generate 2% of peak demand of electricity by rooftop solar. This project is expected to be launched by December 2018.

IFC has conducted an interim study for the country's renewable energy potential, which proves the scope of developing more renewable energy, but it is yet to be explored deeply. Along with solar, Papua New Guinea can also expand its use of hydro power, which is also under utilized.

"By having solar, wind and other renewable sources of energy, we will avoid the vulnerability, expense and environmental cost that comes with diesel shipments and storage," said PNG Power's Acting Managing Director, Carolyn Blacklock. "PNG Power wants to leverage the global expertise of IFC. We know that other countries have had great success in utilising the private sector to increase the reliability of power generation and we want to tap into that global expertise."

About 7 million denizens in the country are not connected to the grid. With no sustainable source of electricity, PNG electrifies its main and mini power grids with polluting diesel.

Both IFC and PNG are working on a village road show to showcase quality solar products and live theatre to those provinces with the lowest electricity access.