Tonga Power showcases success of NZ-funded electricity upgrade at ‘Alaki

Tonga Power Limited employees showcased their skills and workmanship to New Zealand Foreign Minister Gerry Brownlee at ‘Alaki village.

The electricity upgrade is part of the New Zealand-funded Tonga Village Network Upgrade Project being carried out in 50 rural villages on Tongatapu.

Robert Matthews, Chief Executive from Tonga Power Limited, discussed the achievements of the project as he escorted Brownlee and New Zealand High Commissioner Sarah Walsh through ‘Alaki village.

Brownlee was able to hear how the NZ$27.8 million New Zealand-funded energy project has supported rural Tongan communities to access more reliable and safe electricity, while reducing Tonga’s national reliance on fossil fuel.

“I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the Tonga Village network upgrade project in action and am proud of New Zealand’s role in this essential sector” said Brownlee. “A reliable electricity network will not only make daily life easier for communities but will also lead to a more solid foundation to allow Tonga to build its regional economy.”

Brownlee has reiterated New Zealand’s commitment to supporting the Government of Tonga to upgrade Nuku’alofa’s electricity network.

This will provide a more reliable electricity service to Tongan businesses and communities, and enable greater electricity generation through renewable energy sources.

Brownlee was on an official visit to Tonga last week. LoopPacific