Pictured: MP for Lagaip and leader for Porgera, Aimos Joseph Akem. (Supplied Image)
In light of the recent meeting between the State and the Hides-Porgera Power Line landowners, MP for Lagaip and also the leader for Porgera, Aimos Joseph Akem, announced to stake holders from Barrick Niugini Limited, Oil Search Limited, Santos, the National Government, and Hela & Enga Provincial Governments of a Lagaip Hydro Project development in the pipeline to supplement existing power supply into Porgera mine.
He expressed that the people of Lagaip have long been spectators to the operations of the Porgera Mine, standing at the gateway to this significant economic venture for over 30 years. He added that despite that, there has been a notable absence of meaningful development or sustainable projects benefitting the local community.
“The Lagaip Hydro Project offers a significant opportunity for the people of Lagaip to finally reap the benefits from the Porgera mine after many years,” he said.
“The Lagaip Hydro project was embarked on 9 years ago (before I became MP) by the Enga Provincial Government with the aim of supplying power to the Porgera Mine. Feasibility work and land owner payments have been completed and is only awaiting construction.
“The Lagaip District Development Authority will in due time put forward a proposal to the Porgera Mine requesting it to become the off-taker of the power generated from the Lagaip Hydro Project.” He added.
With estimates projecting up to 20 megawatts of energy production and the potential for further expansion through Lagaip downstream hydro project, Akem said it will complement the existing 72 megawatts supplied by the Hides “Gas to Power” GTP into Porgera Mine. This creates a mutually beneficial arrangement that fosters prosperity for all stakeholders involved.
“The request here is for the Oil Search Limited, Santos, Barrick Niugini Limited, the National Government and Hela Provincial Government to come up with a strategy to retain the 20 megawatts from the Hides GTP back in Hela for local utilization in Hela Province. This thereby creates a win-win situation for all parties involved. This approach not only ensures a sustainable energy supply for the region but also promotes economic development and energy security in both Hela and Enga provinces.” He said.
“The aim of the Lagaip Hydro project is to use that energy to boost local economic growth in Lagaip and Porgera Districts, including other districts throughout Enga Province, after the Porgera mine shuts down.” Akem highlighted.
The local MP described the Lagaip Hydro Project as a significant step towards achieving energy sustainability and self-sufficiency in the Lagaip and Porgera Districts. By maximizing the potential of clean energy sources and fostering local energy utilization, we can pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
