By Staycey Yalo – EMTV News, Port Moresby
International Finance Corporation (IFC) and PNG Power Limited have begun discussions with businesses on expanding renewable energy sources in Papua New Guinea, with a proposal for a pilot rooftop solar program in Port Moresby.
The move follows a request by PNG Power for IFC to build on its successful off-grid solar program, Lighting PNG, to help the power company’s business customers access a pilot program.
The aim is to initially allow about 2% of peak demand for electricity in Port Moresby to be generated from rooftop solar sources.
Under its national plan, Papua New Guinea plans to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050. With less than 20% of Papua New Guineans currently having access to an electricity grid, Papua New Guinea presents one of the most challenging and underserved energy markets in the world.
IFC’s Lighting PNG program has seen about 20% of the population gain access to basic lighting, and mobile phone charging services for the first time.
