NIP district signs power deal with PNG Power

PNG Power Ltd and the Namatanai District Development Authority (NDDA) have signed a partnership agreement on Thursday to reconnect electricity services at Konos and Namatanai in New Ireland.
According to PNG Power Ltd, the partnership would see electricity service was provided 24 hours in Namatanai town and rural areas.
This would also enhance social and economic development activities in the district.
PNG Power and the district authority entered into an electricity partnership programme whereby both parties would use the necessary funds, management and supervisory skills, natural resources and materials to conduct appropriate electricity structures.
The new developments would include the refurbishment of the Sohun Hydropower Station as an option along other hybrid (diesel/solar/hydro) solutions for generation to be technically assessed by PNG Power.
But it would be installed and operated under a mini-independent power producer by the Namatanai district authority.
PNG Power would also prioritise reticulation and retailing of electricity.
MP Walter Schnaubelt acknowledged PNG Power acting managing director Carolyn Blacklock and her team for the partnership.
“We now look forward to achieving this partnership agreement together,” he said.
“This is also my policy position on our Stretim Ai Dua Pastaim (empower people first) policy to ensure important basic services such as efficient, reliable and affordable electricity is restored so it can add value to the lives of the people of Namatanai.”