New Ramu hydro project

THE Ramu 2 hydro power project will start soon.
The recent contract-signing between of Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC) and Webster Drillers signalled the beginning of on-site engineering work in Yonki, Eastern Highlands.
IPBC is carrying out the new Ramu 2 hydropower project that would provide a projected 140-180 MW renewable power boost to the Ramu grid serving Lae, Madang and the entire Highlands region.
The project would also bring major socio-economic benefits to the area.
The power generator was being managed and funded by IPBC with technical support from PNG Power and formed part of a long-term sustainable solution to under capacity issues in the region.
The project will cater for the long-term domestic and industrial power demand in Lae and the Highlands region.
It was a key development infrastructure priority for IPBC and the government.      
IPBC had engaged the services of Webster Drillers through a competitive bidding process to undertake the drilling job for K8 million.
The geo-tech study would include the drilling of 13 holes along the 7km proposed tunnelling route and would enable the Douglas Partners, as the geo-tech specialist, to perform sub-surface exploration.
The geo-tech investigation, including social and environmental impact assessment, was expected to be completed by the end of this year and the commercial-financial assessment of the project would begin by the fourth quarter.
The IPBC has engaged a consortium of consulting firms led by Parsons Brinkerhoff to undertake the full feasibility study including technical, social and environmental investigations.
The renewable energy project would bring social and economic benefits to the area by providing a reliable and sustainable source of power and create numerous new jobs.
 As the project manager, IPBC would ensure that local involvement is maximised and would engage local labour and security firms to ensure immediate and direct economic benefits to the surrounding population.