THE Western Provincial Assembly over the weekend has signed a USD$1.2million (SBD$9m) deal with the South Pacific Oil Limited (SPOL) for the use of its pipeline in Noro, Western province.
The two years contract was signed so that SPOL can use the pipeline at Noro for fuel supply purposes.
The property is owned by the province.
Deputy Premier Wayne Maepio said, that his government is pleased with the project.
“This project will surely help my province,” Mr Maepio said.
He explained that SPOL will pay for the use of the pipeline on a quarterly basis.
“One quarter will cost them (SPOL) $300, 000,” he confirmed.
Mr Maepio said that his government is happy to work with such investor to invest in his province.
“We are working with SPOL mainly to find ways to supply fuel with better prices just like Honiara or elsewhere in the country,” he added.
He said, in Noro fuel prices have gone up which has affected a lot of people.
SPOL chief executive officer (CEO) Carson Korowa said, SPOL is happy to work with the province.
“Our aim is to bring the fuel to the province and offer it better prices like in Honiara,” Mr Korowa added.
He urged the provincial government that the deal will now run to provide fuel services for the people in Western province.
Mr Maepio told Solomon Star that currently, the pipeline is being used by the National Fisheries Development (NFD) to supply fuel at Noro wharf.
“But this same pipeline will also be used by SPOL as well.
“Thank you SPOL for your great agreement to sign this deal with us,” he said.
By LESLEY SANGA
