Using generators and benzene lamps will soon be a thing of the past for villagers in Somosomo, Taveuni following the signing of a contractual agreement for a mini hydro power station on the island.
The contractual agreement was signed today between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Fijian Government through senior representatives.
Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, Pio Tikoduadua said that the contractual agreement now allows the government of the People’s Republic of China to fund the Somosomo mini hydro power station.
“The contractual agreement will allow the Chinese government to fund the construction of a hydro that will produce 700KW of power which will generate electricity through two 350KW generators,” PS Tikoduadua said.
“This project is co-shared between the two governments, the primary funding of $50 million RMB is provided by the People’s Republic of China.
The permanent secretary also commended the government of the People’s Republic of China for their position on improving the lives of ordinary Fijians.
“Today’s signing is another demonstration of the close friendship and mutual cooperation that exists between China and Fiji,” PS Tikoduadua said.
“I would like to thank the government of the People’s Republic of China for funding this project which is very critical to the development of the Fijian people.
“This is indeed good news for the people in Taveuni as they will now have a sustainable and reliable source of power and energy for the future .”
Hunan Construction Engineering Group Corporation, General Manager, Yu Guohui said that the company was pleased to be part of the mutual cooperation between the Chinese and Fijian government.
“We are grateful that we have been awarded the contract to construct the Somosomo mini hydro power station by the Chinese government,” Mr Yu said.
“We are determined to complete the project within the timeframe of 16 months and are pleased to be able to contribute to a project that will benefit the people of Taveuni.”
The project will provide electricity to several large villages and settlements in the Somosomo area, the main commercial centre at Taveuni, a number of hotels, boarding schools and the Waiyevo Government Station.