PRESS RELEASE

10 April 2024

Support for stable and sustainable energy sector

The Government of Tonga and the Government of Australia today signed a new partnership agreement for AUD15 million in additional financing to Tonga’s energy sector.​​​​​​​

The partnership will fund Tonga Power Limited to upgrade the 13-kilometre main transmission lines in Tongatapu, ready for renewable solar and battery projects under development. These projects will help enable Tonga to reach its 70 per cent renewable energy generation target in 2025.

The funding will also support Tonga Power Limited to stabilise electricity supply and reduce power outages through the replacement of ageing generators.

The next stage of the Nuku’alofa Network Upgrade Project will also be supported by the new funding. Area 4 of the project will cover more than 400 homes and businesses, upgrading the area’s grids and equipment to make them more resilient to natural disasters - especially cyclones.

The funding agreement was signed today at Popua Power Station by the Chief Executive Officer of Ministry of Finance, Kilisitina Tuaimei’api and the Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, Her Excellency, Rachael Moore.

In attendance were Minister for Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications, Honourable Fekita ‘Utoikamanu; Australia’s Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, His Excellency Ewen McDonald; and the board and staff of TPL.

Minister ʻUtoikamanu said that the agreement marks a significant step forward in Australia’s commitment to supporting Tonga’s energy solutions and transition to renewable and sustainable energy.

"The Government of Australia has been an unwavering partner in our successful implementation of the Tonga’s Energy Roadmap; which aims to decrease Tonga’s dependence on fossil fuels and deliver an energy system that by 2035 is affordable, accessible, inclusive, resilient, sustainable, secure and enhances the livelihood and wellbeing of all Tongans."

His Excellency Ewen McDonald commended Tonga for its regional and global leadership in transitioning to renewable energy, and welcomed the sharing of innovation across both countries. 

“The renewable energy transformation is not just important for Australia and Tonga; it is important for our Pacific region as we continue to grapple with the lived reality of the climate crisis.”

Acting CEO of Tonga Power Limited, Finau Moa extended his appreciation for the investment.

“This holistic approach, backed by Australia's commitment, empowers us to transition towards renewable energy without compromising service reliability. We are deeply appreciative of Australia's partnership, which aligns with our mission of delivering sustainable, safe, and affordable electricity services to the people of Tonga, as well as our vision of powering the sustainable development for the Kingdom.”

Australia has supported the energy sector in Tonga for more than ten years, including through the Outer Island Renewable Energy Project and the Tonga Renewable Energy Project in partnership with the Government of Tonga, Tonga Power Limited and the Asian Development Bank.

These long-term projects increase the resilience of Tonga’s energy sector as it grows and ensure that the sector is effective, reliable, and able to support the transition to renewable energy.