BY LORETTA B MANELE

Solomon Power is currently progressing work in its renewable energy endeavours.

Delilah Homelo, CEO for the state-owned enterprise gave a brief take on this at a UNDP and Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) Panel Discussion on “Pathways towards better electric power availability, affordability, and sustainability” at the Heritage Park Hotel last week.

When questioned about what renewable project Solomon Power is currently engaged in, she said they have a battery storage system.

Homelo explained that right now, they have a grid set up for two connection points which are Lunga and Honiara Powerhouse.

She voiced that they are very conscious about grid stability, noting that if you have multiple generations coming in to different feeders, it will impact the system.

“So, it’s very important that we need to have stability in the grid. As a result of that, we have to have battery storage,” said Homelo.

She mentioned that this battery storage project is funded through ADB and Saudi, together with Solomon Islands Government for exemptions with Solomon Power.

Homelo said they also need to prepare their grid.

She added that if there are different connection points, they will also have to upgrade whatever infrastructure they have in those areas.

“So right now, we’re also doing studies for integration, studies for interconnections as well. And it will identify what sort of upgrades that we need to do. And it will cost money as well.

“We will have to spend money to do that. But then it will enable other parties to come on board as well,” said Homelo.

She noted that as the Lunga Power Station is old, they are in the process of doing electrical upgrade.

Homelo said they are also in the process of setting up their dispatch center, so that they could also be able to manage the various renewable energy that comes through.

“So, in a few years’ time, it will be hydro plus solar plus diesel. So, we need to be able to do that as well. And we have to spend money for that,” she said.

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