China & Solomon Islands signs solar project agreement

By Lachlan Eddie

The People’s Republic of China and the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology signed an agreement today for a mini solar power project that will cover the first 25 constituencies across the country.

The signing ceremony took place at the Chinese Embassy in Honiara.

Chinese Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Cai Weiming, said the agreement represents a significant step forward in the bilateral cooperation on renewable energy.

“It is a great pleasure to have you here today for the signing of the Agreement of Cooperation on the Mini Solar Power Project between the Chinese Embassy, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, and Ever Exceed Solomon Islands Company Limited.”

“Under this agreement, the Chinese Embassy is donating solar power equipment to 25 constituencies across Solomon Islands. This is just the beginning – next year, we will provide this equipment to the remaining 25 constituencies,” Ambassador Weiming said.

Meanwhile, Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology,  Hon. Polycarp Paea, described the moment as “the transfer of hope.”

“This moment marks not only the transfer of solar systems, but more importantly, the transfer of hope, opportunity, and resilience to our rural communities.”

“As we all know, the challenge of expanding reliable and affordable energy access in Solomon Islands remains significant,” Minister Paea said.

The off-grid solar power project will install 5-kilowatt solar systems across the 25 constituencies, with Ever Exceed Solomon Islands Company Limited handling the distribution and installation.

The remaining 25 constituencies in the country will receive similar solar power systems from the Chinese Embassy next year, completing nationwide coverage of the initiative.

END//