$10M allocated for rural electrification program
$10M allocated for rural electrification program
By
fijivillage.com
Sunday 10/11/2013
The government has allocated $10 million in the 2014 National Budget, for the rural electrification program to extend power to homes and communities that are currently bypassed.
This expenditure will include maintenance, house-wiring, stand-alone generator schemes and solar schemes.
In 2014, they have earmarked the Tavua - Korovou region as a priority for the extension of the national electricity grid.
The infrastructure they extend into this area will finally provide residents with a secure and reliable power supply.
The Tavua - Korovou region was also declared a Tax Free Zone in the 2013 Budget.
But in order for entrepreneurs to be able to fully capitalize on this initiative, they must have a reliable supply of electricity.
The costs for this grid extension work will be split between the Government and FEA.
Government's contribution will be $9.4 million and the FEA will contribute $9.4 million.
Government will also allocate $2 million to connect homes as the grid is extended.
Additionally, Government will allocate $1.2 million to extend the grid to the communities in Sauniwaqa, Lawarua, Nasivikoso, Korobubu and Namau.
A budget of $200,000 is also provided for the grid extension to the Nakasa - Uluivalili Secondary School.
To further support renewable energy initiatives and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, Government will provide $1.25 million for the Somosomo Hydro Power Project, which is co-funded by a grant from the Chinese Government.
They have also set aside $510,000 to further expand bio-fuel production in remote regions, as well as for maintenance of the existing bio-fuel plants in Koro, Cicia, Rotuma and Gau.
These facilities provide a reliable and affordable source of energy for local communities, create jobs, and open up a variety of economic opportunities in these remote locations.
Similarly, $205,000 has been provided for expansion of bio-gas development projects in all 14 provinces, including the installation of 10 bio-gas plants.
Government will also contribute $300,000 towards renewable energy development projects.
Story by: Ronal Deo
FEATURE NEWS
LATEST NEWS
fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan
Latest Videos
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations