Advancing Fiji’s sustainable energy ambitions towards cleaner energy and decreased reliance on imported fossil fuels, Fiji Gas, in collaboration with the Obayashi Corporation of Japan, and Halcyon Power of New Zealand recently demonstrated a hydrogen dual-fuel generator at the Lautoka Depot.
This was highlighted by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica during parliament this morning.
The Minister said this project represents a significant leap in our efforts to transition towards cleaner energy sources and reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels.
He added, this project is about testing on how Fiji can use a cleaner fuel, in this case, hydrogen, to produce electricity.
“This generator at the Lautoka Depot is a trial run, helping us learn what works and what needs to improve before we adopt this technology on a larger scale. More importantly, it will help us understand the infrastructure and policies we need to support hydrogen use, making it easier for us to adopt this clean energy technology on a larger scale.”
“Hydrogen is seen as a game changer. It can replace fossil fuels in many areas, from powering generators to fuelling vehicles and vessels.”
The Minister said this achievement traces back to the New Zealand Trade Mission in 2023, in which the Coalition Government reinforced the strong relationship between Fiji and New Zealand under the Duavata Partnership.
As part of the mission, The Coalition Government engaged in productive discussions with the New Zealand Government, which laid the foundation for what has now become the process of how green hydrogen energy is produced.
Through the Taupō Hydrogen Partnership, Halcyon Power Limited oversees the production of green hydrogen and facilitates its transportation from New Zealand to Fiji, where it is utilised for the hydrogen dual-fuel generator installed by Fiji Gas.
The Minister stressed that this a pilot project but is part of a broader initiative supported by the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) Financing Support Programme administered by the Ministry of the Environment of Japan.
He noted through the JCM Financing Support Programme, the Japanese Government has played a pivotal role in making this project a reality.
“Japan, represented by Obayashi Corporation, has contributed technical expertise and financial backing, while New Zealand, a global leader in renewable energy, has supplied the green hydrogen and shared its vast experience in developing hydrogen-powered solutions. “
Concluding his remarks, the Minister commended Fiji Gas for their vision and commitment to this initiative highlighting that this project sets the stage for Fiji to lead by example in the Pacific, demonstrating how renewable energy solutions can create a greener, more resilient future for all.