The Motech Industries Incorporation of Taiwan has offered to provide solar power to government ministries at the cost of SBD$3.5 million.
The company’s Accountant Manager for Asia Pacific Sales Department, Mr Sam Min met with Prime Minister Hon Manasseh Sogavare yesterday afternoon about the offer.
Mr Min said he came up with the initiative after learning from his discussions with the Taiwanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands that electricity power is very expensive in Solomon Islands hence the need for the installation of a solar system in government offices for the use of electricity appliances requiring less power voltage to operate.
He said, if this offer is taken aboard by the government, it will see a great reduction in its electricity spending.
Mr Min also discussed the idea of the government investing in its solar farm near the Solomon Islands Electricity Authority headquarters in Ranandi.
“Right now I also have the opportunity of introducing the Solomon Islands Government to our Solar Farm near the SIEA headquarters. In 2010 we’ve talked with the government about the idea of it investing in this solar farm project and wish to resubmit this proposal for your consideration,” Mr Min said.
In response, the Prime Minister said the idea is ‘very’ attractive and the relevant government ministry will need to have consultations with SIEA before responding to the proposal.
“We will have to hold discussions with SIEA the possibility of coming up with the same arrangements we will have with the Tina Hydro Project to sell power to SIEA. If the project finds approval with us all then we will proceed.”
Hon Sogavare said Honiara is growing and so is the need for reliable power supply.
– PMO
