NEW Zealand has committed NZD$5.8 million dollars to fund a major upgrade of electricity distribution networks in 17 rural villages in Tongatapu that would improve the lives of some 10,000 people by providing a safe and reliable electricity supply.

The grant funds stage one of the Tonga Energy Roadmap's Village Network Project by upgrading low voltage electricity networks in the villages of Kolonga, Afa, Niutoua, Haveluliku, Fatumu, Lavengatonga, Ha'asini/Hamula, Nakolo, 'Utulau, Ha'akame, Ha'alalo, Houma, Vaotu'u, Ha'utu/Fahefa, Kala'au, Ha'atafu and Puke.

Tonga's Prime Minister Lord Tu'ivakano and the New Zealand High Commissioner in Tonga HE Dr Jonathan Austin signed a Letter of Variation on March 25 in Nuku'alofa, which increases the amount under a Grant Funding Agreement initially signed between the two Governments on January 29, 2011.

Major upgrade

Dr Austin said the major upgrade of the distribution network would result in a safer and more reliable electricity supply for 10,000 people in 17 villages across Tongatapu.

He said that everyone in Tonga is concerned with the price of power and Tonga depended entirely on world oil prices.

"The more we can do to help Tonga save power and generate power form other sources will be good for all of us and New Zealand is pleased to support and is a strong supporter of Tonga's Energy Roadmap in achieving its goals."

Tonga's Prime Minister of Tonga Lord Tu'ivakano thanked the New Zealand Government. "This is a major assistance to upgrading infrastructure that would help 10,000 people in 17 villages."

The project aims to provide 1,986 meter connections to houses, churches and businesses as well 1,949 supply single lines single phase, 37 supply lines three phase, 50 km low voltage single phase, 10km low voltage three phase and 3,000 power poles.

Access to reliable energy is important for development and this project is expected to decrease line losses by 10 percent upon completion with around 274,030 litres of diesel saved.

The project is to be completed in 24 months has started with the first process of selecting a Project Manager.

Tonga's sole power distributor Tonga Power Ltd will carry out the upgrade work.