Solomon Islands Solar Power Development Project

Who is financing a solar energy project in the Solomon Islands?

The Asian Development Bank, Saudi Fund for Development, and Solomon Power are all financing the project. A project is now underway on the Solomon Islands to help the country accelerate its renewable energy generation.

What percentage of the Solomon Islands' electricity mix is renewable?

Renewable energy only makes up 2% of the Solomon Islands' electricity mix. Image: Namkoo Solar. A group of investment firms led by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has partnered with the government of the Solomon Islands to finance new solar PV power plants, increase rooftop solar PV installations and support the islands' power sector reforms.

How is the Solomon Islands project funded?

The project is being funded by a $10 million concessional loan and a $5 million grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), while the Saudi Fund for Development and state-owned Solomon Power are providing $10 million each. The government of the Solomon Islands is providing $7 million.

What is the Asian Development Bank doing in Solomon Islands?

The Asian Development Bank is working with the Government of Solomon Islands and Solomon Power to convert electricity networks in five provinces almost entirely to solar power. The project will reduce the need for costly shipments of diesel to the provincial centers. LATEST PROJECT DOCUMENTS 1.

Can a solar PV system boost economic growth in the Solomon Islands?

A pilot business model for rooftop solar PV systems will also be trialled at two schools in the country. Shane Rosenthal, ADB's Pacific liaison and coordination office regional director, believes that upscaling renewable energy generation in the Solomon Islands could help unlock economic growth and prosperity.

What does Solomon power do?

Solomon Power is the implementing agency for the Solar Power Development Project. They provide personnel for the Project Management Unit (PMU). The PMU, which is within Solomon Power, has been responsible for the procurement of all civil works and goods for the project, in accordance with ADB's Procurement Guidelines.