A solar panel system is being planned for Vaiola Hospital that could see a 30 per cent cut in the hospital's electricity bills, which presently runs at around $40,000 per month.

The Government of Japan has committed to financing Phase II of Vaiola Hospital construction next year and will incorporate the installation of the solar panel system for the hospital.

A team of three specialists from Japan is currently conducting a study to determine the feasibility and appropriateness of the solar panel system in relation to its size and installation as well as site investigation, data collection and discussions with the Ministry of Health and counterparts.

Led by Mr Takeshi Endo, an architectural planner, with Mr Katsuo Urano, Solar Panel System specialist and Mr Seiichi Nakamura, a Mechanical System Assistance, a meeting was held on June 30 with the Minister of Health Dr Viliami Tangi and counterparts.

Project Director of Vaiola Hospital Viliami Ika anticipated that a solar panel system could provide over 20 per cent of the hospital's power supply.

He estimated that the hospital could be looking at over 20 per cent cut in its electricity bill if a solar panel system is installed. The balance of their power needs will still be generated from the normal power supply.

Design

Mr Endo said at the end of their study they would compile a Basic Design Report including the solar study outcome report that will be presented to the Government of Japan for approval.

He expected that by the end of October the overall plan including costing of the project will be finalised and the tender for the work and the actual construction can begin next year.

Japan had previously financed Phase 1 of Vaiola Hospital, a T-shaped building accommodating a midwifery unit, an obstetrics ward, neo-natal intensive care wards, operating theatres, surgery wards, an x-ray facility, a biochemistry laboratory and private rooms.

The team of specialists, in Tonga from June 29 to July 4, were expected to return in August with their findings.