The National Energy Authority (NEA) is calling on Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to surrender their existing licenses with the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) and obtain new ones directly from the NEA.
Upon issuing a license to Dirio Gas and Power Limited, NEA Managing Director Ronald Meketa stated that six other IPPs have yet to secure their operating licenses under the NEA.
Mr. Meketa commended Dirio and the MRDC Group for taking this step and collaborating with the government.
“We’ve witnessed the challenges we face as an IPP with the current situation concerning the electricity power company, PNG Power. That hasn’t deterred you from reinvesting more in the communities. While the traditional vision model doesn’t support reinvestment, you are willing to support and work with the government. You are also making connections, and we thank you for that. We also encourage other partners to come forward.”
Managing Director Meketa urged other IPPs in Papua New Guinea to step forward and take on additional operational centers.
“We have 21 provinces and 119 sites, but PNG Power is licensed for only 35 sites,” he explained. “Of those 35, 17 are high-cost centers, and Dirio has taken on five districts. So, we are challenging all companies to pick up the other districts.”
He emphasized that occupying other districts or sites will allow companies to collectively work towards meeting the energy needs of Papua New Guineans.
“As the regulator, we’re calling on IPPs to return and submit their licenses,” Mr. Meketa reiterated. “That’s what Dirio is doing right now; we granted them a full concession. We’re calling on other IPPs to follow suit.”
Mr. Meketa assured that the NEA will honor commitments made under the ICCC, stating, “There won’t be any major amendments to your existing license conditions.
Meketa concluded. “We want to chart a new path for Papua New Guineans to have access to electricity.”