The Ministry of Infrastructure celebrated the so5 launch of Niue’s New Power Sta;on on the 7th November 2024. The launch marks a cri;cal milestone in Niue’s journey to strengthen and modernize its energy infrastructure. The journey began in 2020 through the support of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the New Zealand Government.

The new power station was made possible with the support by DFAT’s $2 million funding for the purchase, installation, system integration, and commissioning of two new generators, along with essential technical advisory support. This project has overcome several hurdles including land tenure and site relocation issues, as well as delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and global procurement disruptions.

In addition to Australia’s support, the New Zealand Government contributed $2.5 million to relocate and restore Niue’s Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). This funding has allowed the Ministry to repair the grid control system, procure necessary fuel tanks, and install cabling and connections. This also includes extensive investigation into lightning prevention systems and mobilizing technical partners from New Zealand and Australia, including ComAP, Arnolds Switchboards, Generator Services, and Tesla, who conducted a preliminary commissioning in September.

The Minister of Infrastructure, Hon. Crossley Tatui extended his appreciation to the Australian and New Zealand Governments, saying, “The construction of this new power station is a vital piece of infrastructure for Niue’s development and well-being. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of our regional partners.” The Minister also acknowledged the AREAN Project, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the Project Management and Coordination Unit (PMCU), which provided additional support for the completion of the power station building, its furnishings, and essential equipment such as transformers, cables, ring main units, and the main switchboard.

Niue’s renewable energy ambitions continue to make strides despite setbacks, including a lightning strike in November 2023, which affected the BESS and solar infrastructure. Prior to the incident, Niue had achieved 38% energy production from solar systems. With the upcoming reintegration of the BESS and solar farms by December, Niue is poised to move closer to its goal of 80% renewable energy production by the end of 2025.

The Ministry now has both old and new power stations available to ensure consistent energy delivery to all communities. As the new station progresses towards full operational status, focus remains on grid stabilization efforts, particularly for the northern feeder, with key parts and equipment expected in December.

Reflecting on recent years, Minister Tatui noted that Niue has invested approximately $8 million to enhance its power system, with ongoing investments, including a $20 million commitment from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) for the Renewable Energy Project, AREAN Project contributions, and support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), affirming the accuracy of Niue’s 2016 energy infrastructure projections.

In closing, Minister Tatui acknowledged and expressed his gratitude to Niue Power Corporation staff and private sector contributors for their hard work and commitment to ensuring a reliable and secure energy future for Niue.*

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Anzee Mougavalu

GON Communications Officer, Email: NiueGovernment.Media@gov.nu