THE South Korean companies responsible for setting up Fiji’s first ever biomass power plant have picked another location for its next facility.
The consortium of companies — GIMCO, GS Power, Mirae Asset and Fiji’s Tropik Wood Industries — will establish another biomass power plant in Sabeto, Nadi.
While speaking at the opening of the new 12MW Nabou Biomass Power Plant in Navutu, Nadroga, on Thursday, GIMCO chairman Sang Sun Lee said this was part of the company’s renewable energy plans for Fiji.
“Also with the opening of this project we are declaring that we are a serious partner in the energy sector and we are committed to doing our best and will continue to bring to Fiji meaningful investments that will support genuine foreign investors,” he said.
“We are planning our next project with a similar capacity (12MW) in Sabeto, Nadi, and would again seek the support of Government, FEA and other partners.”
Mr Lee said the establishment of biomass power plants would lead to a reduction of Fiji’s dependency on fossil fuel.
“Further, with the success of these power plants, Fiji will import less diesel for supplying electricity.
“The hundreds of millions in foreign exchange saved from such projects can be used for construction of roads, hospitals and schools for the Fijian people.
“For us the opening of this project has come at a very good time — when Fiji is demonstrating leadership in climate change. We are hopeful this will, in a small way, assist the President of COP 23 demonstrate to the world that Fiji is serious about its emissions reduction.”
He added the company had teamed up with the Ministry of Forestry to use invasive species of forests as fuel for the biomass plant.
“We are also working closely with the Ministry of Forests to ensure that we have sufficient forest biomass resources through effective re-afforestation programs including the use of invasive species such as African Tulip.”
The $92 million facility was opened by Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
