Australia delivers clean energy to power homes and boost livelihoods on Solomon Islands’ off-grid Savo Island
More than 500 people on Solomon Islands’ Savo Island now have access to clean, reliable electricity for the first time, thanks to a new solar-powered off-grid energy system supported by Australia.
Delivered by Archipelago Energy in partnership with the Australian Government through the Business Partnerships Platform (BPP), the system has been installed at two sites, supporting households, essential services and local livelihoods.
Around 80 per cent of Savo Island residents rely on fishing but limited cold storage has restricted sales. The new system now provides refrigeration to support fish trading and strengthen the island’s main source of income, alongside improved power for schools and health facilities, household energy access and internet connectivity.
The system was launched at Sunset Lodge on Savo Island this week by Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Mr Jeff Roach OAM, together with community members and local entrepreneurs.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Mr Jeff Roach OAM, said: “Australia is proud to support partnerships that think outside the box to deliver real benefits for Solomon Islands communities who cannot access reliable electricity which is essential for economic growth in remote areas.”
A new local trading initiative, operating under the “Hapi Fis” brand, has already secured a supply contract with Solomon Islands National University, demonstrating how reliable energy can unlock new market opportunities.
Archipelago Energy’s Managing Director, John Marsh, said: “Our partnership approach with entrepreneurs who are local agents for household solar kits and fish trading sales is one that is scalable and can be adapted to other communities across Solomon Islands.”
Savo Island Entrepreneur, Wendy Ngini, from the Kaogele site, said: “Before this, it was very hard to keep fish fresh or run a small business. Now with reliable power, we can store our catch, sell more and earn a better income. It is helping our community grow and giving young people more opportunities here on the island.”
This partnership is a pilot for REnew Pacific, Australia’s AUD75 million investment to power off-grid communities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste with renewable energy. It is supported through the Pacific Climate Infrastructure Financing Partnership (PCIFP), a $350 million Australian Government initiative delivered by the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP).
