For 146 villages in the foothills of the Torricelli Mountain Range, solar power is bringing light, opportunity, and hope for endangered wildlife.
, Executive Director of the Tenkile Conservation Alliance (TCA) Matthew Akon, said, “When solar power came here, the people were overjoyed, saying, ‘We are now coming out of the darkness.”
He said since 2021, Australia’s Pawarim Komuniti Partnerships (PKP) program has worked with TCA and local communities through the Kamapim Pawa project in Aitape/Lumi and Nuku districts.
Despite rugged terrain, the project has installed 8,005 home solar systems and 350 solar streetlights, providing clean electricity to more than 24,000 people.
The project targets villages partnering with TCA to protect endangered species like the Tenkile and Weimang tree kangaroos.
By replacing bush torches with solar lighting, households reduce pressure on forests and help conserve critical habitat.
All households that received systems have permanently switched from previous lighting sources. The result is safer, cleaner, and more reliable light after dark.
While 146 villages are now powered, 43 communities still lack access. With UK FCDO support, PKP’s final ‘last mile’ phase will deliver 1,500 more home systems and 100 streetlights.
The project also trains local Solar Champions to install and maintain systems, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Kamapim Pawa is one of eight PKP Round 2 projects to finish by end of 2026. It supports PNG’s goal of 70% household electrification by 2030 and universal access by 2050.
