Tonga Power Limited in a collaboration with Northpower, a leading electricity network distribution company based in New Zealand, will conduct a significant improvement to Tonga’s electricity network infrastructure, costing around $3.8 million pa'anga, TPL announced yesterday.

TPL’s engineers alongside Northpower’s inspection solutions team conducted comprehensive network assessments in October 2023 and April 2024, and found areas of network deterioration that require immediate and strategic interventions, TPL stated.

"This collaboration with Northpower symbolizes a significant step towards a reliable and resilient electricity network for Tonga.”

Firstly, TPL plans to stablize the power supply, by rectifying critical defects identified in the network and to implement strategic changes to the positioning and operation of network equipment to enhance performance and reduce outage impacts.

According to TPL, the work, costing an estimated $95,000 pa'anga, is currently progressing and to be completed by the end of August.

Infrastructure upgrades

At an estimated cost of $2.6M NZD, TPL also plans to replace and upgrade critical components of the electricity network, focusing on high-impact areas such as the central business district (CBD).

They also aim to strengthen the existing network infrastructure to improve resilience and reduce the risk of future outages.

These works are set to start mid-October with a construction period of 8-10 weeks.

Develop network plan

TPL plans to develop and implement a long-term plan for the sustainable management and expansion of the electricity network, including outer islands, and to simplify and enhance network engineering standards and establish an ongoing preventative maintenance schedule. Lastly, to invest in technical engineering processes and staff development to ensure the continuous improvement and sustainability of the electricity network.

Power outages

TPL acknowledged the difficulties and inconveniences that customers face due to power outages.

"These challenges underscore the urgency and importance of the planned works. TPL seeks the understanding and support of the people of Tonga as these critical improvements are undertaken to ensure a more reliable and resilient electricity supply for the future," the company stated.