By Tupou Vaipulu Jr

A new “state-of-the-art” 2MWh Cummins Genset generator, commissioned at Tonga Power Ltd's power plant at Anana in Nuku'alofa, yesterday, 14 February, will help meet peak demand on Tongatapu.

The generator, worth about $1.038 million pa'anga, was commissioned by the Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, HE Rachael Moore.

Tonga Power Ltd. stated that the project was a partnership between Tonga Power Ltd. and the Australian Government for Tonga's energy development.

“This collaboration sees the commissioning of a state-of-the-art 2MWh Cummins genset [worth] AUD 679,612 for the generator set, [and] auxiliaries, transportation and commissioning engineers generously contributed by Australia through its Australian Aid program.”

“TPL recognizes the critical importance of ensuring the reliability of power supply to the people of Tongatapu, the main population base of the Kingdom. The introduction of the new genset is poised to enhance power generation reliability to peak performance levels, addressing immediate energy needs.”

“TPL and the Australian government recognize the necessity of bolstering traditional power generation capacity in developing countries like Tonga. This investment lays the foundation for Tonga's gradual transition to renewable energy sources.”

Tonga Power is in the process of integrating renewable energy technologies into its power infrastructure.

“The new genset is compatible with digitized automated control systems, including CoMaps controllers, enabling a smooth transition towards renewable energy technology,” it stated.

“TPL’ s existing fleet, with approximately 20 years of asset life, faces challenges in meeting Tongatapu's electricity demand. With the addition of the 2MWh genset from Australia, TPL significantly enhances its capacity to meet peak demand, especially during hot seasons where demand reaches approximately 13MWh - 14MWh.”

Tonga Power also recognised the challenges that the transition brings. “While adjustments may be needed for older gensets to adapt to this new technology as we’ve witness in the previous weeks with continuous blackouts, TPL remains steadfast on this transition.”