Kadavu cuts diesel costs by $336,000 a year with new solar power system

The Vunisea power station on Kadavu Island is set to achieve significant cost savings and enhance energy security following the commissioning of a new solar hybrid power system. The LAKARO Solar Hybrid Power Plant, officially opened by Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau, marks a major step towards renewable energy adoption for the island community.

Previously, the power station consumed around 60 drums of diesel monthly, costing approximately $42,000. With the new solar photovoltaic and battery storage system, diesel consumption has been reduced to about 20 drums per month. This translates to an estimated saving of 8,000 liters of diesel each month, amounting to annual savings of roughly $336,000.

The LAKARO project is a collaborative effort funded by the governments of Fiji, New Zealand, and the United Arab Emirates, with a combined contribution exceeding $55.8 million. The Fijian government also contributed $350,000 towards remedial works. This initiative is expected to supply 25 to 30 percent of Vunisea's energy needs through renewable sources, lessening Kadavu's reliance on imported fuels and paving the way for the government's long-term goal of 100 percent renewable energy generation for the station.

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The government’s long-term goal is to achieve 100 percent renewable energy generation for the Vunisea power station.