Lagaip MP seeks approval for hydro power project

LAGAIP MP Aimos Joseph Akem is asking Barrick Niugini Limited, Oil Search Limited, Santos, Hela and the Enga government to allow the Lagaip hydro-poower project development pipeline to supplement the Porgera mine power supply.
He said the Lagaip community had been left out of the operations of the Porgera mine for more than 30 years.
“Despite that, there has been a notable absence of development or sustainable projects benefitting the community,” he said.
“The people of Lagaip deserve better and the Lagaip hydro-power project offers them an opportunity to benefit from the Porgera mine.”
Akem said the hydro-power project had existed for nine years to supply power to Porgera mine.
“Feasibility work and landowner payments have been completed and is only awaiting construction,” he said.
“The Lagaip District Development Authority (LDDA) will put forward a proposal to the Porgera Mine requesting it to become an off-taker of the power generated from hydro-power project.”
The project is estimated to produce 20 megawatts.
“This should complement the 72 megawatts supplied by the Hides Gas-to-Power GTP into Porgera mine.”
He urged the Government and stakeholders to look at the long-term sustainability of the projects and their benefits.