Sainiani Boila 
Rotuma Island is making significant strides towards sustainable energy with its ongoing solar farm project, helping reduce reliance on diesel power and providing a continuous electricity supply to the community.
Commissioned in 2015, the solar farm in Ahau has been a landmark initiative to harness renewable energy on the island.
It was designed to complement existing diesel generators, ensuring the government station and nearby villages receive power 24 hours a day.
Rotuma District Officer Luke Savu highlighted the importance of the solar farm in improving energy security and sustainability.
“The idea behind this solar farm project is for the government station and the nearby villages to be on 24-hour supply,” he said, emphasizing that the solar system works concurrently with diesel generators to maintain consistent power.”
This initiative marks a pivotal step for Rotuma, an island traditionally dependent on costly and polluting diesel fuel.
By leveraging solar technology, the island is cutting fuel consumption and reducing its environmental footprint, while also aiming to make energy more reliable and affordable for residents.
The solar farm project also aligns with broader development goals for Rotuma, complementing other infrastructure improvements such as road maintenance and water supply upgrades.
With ongoing government support and community engagement, the solar farm sets a positive example of how remote island communities can embrace renewable energy to achieve sustainable development.
As Rotuma continues to expand its renewable energy efforts, the project offers hope for a cleaner, greener future for the island and its people.
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