News and Public Notices

The Bougainville Power and Water Corporation Limited (BPWCL) has become one of the first State-Owned Enterprises under the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) to successfully generate revenue from its own commercial operations, following the commissioning of the 1-megawatt solar power plant in Buin, South Bougainville.

Chief Secretary to the ABG and BPWCL Board Chair, Mr. Kearnneth Nanei, made the announcement, describing it as a significant achievement in strengthening Bougainville’s State-Owned Enterprise sector, which now falls under his leadership following a department restructure that places SOE functions within the Office of the Chief Secretary.

“BPWCL is now one of the first SOEs under the ABG to successfully generate revenue directly from its operations. This demonstrates that Bougainville is building the institutional and technical capability to run commercially viable public utilities that support service delivery and economic growth,” Mr. Nanei said. 

The solar facility was officially commissioned on 16 December 2025 and now delivers clean and reliable electricity to approximately 250 households, schools, businesses, health facilities and government services in Buin town and surrounding communities.

Mr. Nanei said the transition of electricity services in Buin from the former supplier, Buin Power, to BPWCL has proven to be a successful takeover model, with BPWCL now fully responsible for operational management and billing services.

“Through this transition, BPWCL is now generating a sustainable revenue stream as an SOE. This marks a major milestone in Bougainville’s economic and institutional development,” Mr Nanei said.

Mr. Nanei also acknowledged the important role played by Buin Power, led by Mr. Albert Nukuitu and Mr. Hubert Mekai, in facilitating the orderly transition of management to BPWC.

“We recognize the commitment of Buin Power in serving the people of Buin over the years, and we are grateful for their cooperation during this transition. Their leadership ensured continuity of service and protected the interests of the community,” Mr. Nanei said.

“The Buin solar project is not only about providing reliable electricity. It is about strengthening State-Owned Enterprises to operate responsibly, professionally and sustainably so they can contribute to Bougainville’s development.”

“We want to make BPWCL a model SOE ensuring that the highest level of accountability and transparency are adhered to in its overall management and operation,” Nanei said.

The Buin solar plant was funded by the Government of Japan and built by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The set-up integrates solar panels with modern battery storage and backup generation, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting global renewable energy objectives.

BPWCL is now progressing plans to expand power connections in Buin to reach additional households and key developments, including the new Buin District Hospital, Buin Teachers College and the Buin Town Market.

Another key priority is the development of local technical skills through workforce training partnerships, ensuring Bougainvilleans are equipped to manage and maintain modern renewable energy systems.

Further expansion of renewable-powered mini-grids is being explored for remote communities across Bougainville as part of BPWCL’s long-term objective to significantly increase household electricity access.

“Reliable energy supply is a catalyst for growth. As BPWCL strengthens its operational and financial base, we expect to see stronger business confidence, improved public services and new investment in South Bougainville and beyond,” Mr. Nanei said.

Mr Nanei says they expect an increase in employment opportunities created through these operations.  

“BPWCL currently has ten employees but this will increase this year to about twenty; we also expect opportunities in spin-offs for local businesses such as fuel supply, security and general maintenance,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to development partners for their continued collaboration and encouraged communities to protect and take ownership of public infrastructure that contributes to Bougainville’s progress.

BPWCL confirms that similar renewable-energy initiatives are being considered for Arawa and Buka, pending formal arrangements with PNG Power Limited through a Memorandum of Understanding expected to be signed this year.

Communities in Buin have already reported significant improvements in daily living conditions and economic activity as a result of reliable power supply.

The ABG commends BPWCL for achieving this major operational and financial milestone, marking a new phase in the development and sustainability of Bougainville’s public utilities. 

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