The Bougainville Power and Water Corporation Limited (BPWCL) has become one of the first State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) under the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) to generate revenue from its own commercial operations following the commissioning of the 1-megawatt Buin Solar Power Plant in South Bougainville.
Chief Secretary to the ABG and BPWCL Board Chair, Kearnneth Nanei, described the achievement as a significant step in strengthening Bougainville’s SOE sector, which now falls under his leadership following a departmental restructure that placed 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,” Nanei said.
The solar facility, officially commissioned on 16 December 2025, now provides clean and reliable electricity to approximately 250 households, schools, businesses, health facilities, and government services in Buin town and surrounding communities.
Nanei highlighted the successful transition of electricity services from the former supplier, Buin Power, to BPWCL, with the latter now fully responsible for operational management and billing.
“Through this transition, BPWCL is generating a sustainable revenue stream as an SOE. This marks a major milestone in Bougainville’s economic and institutional development,” he said, acknowledging the cooperation of Buin Power leadership in ensuring continuity of service during the handover.
“The Buin solar project is not only about providing reliable electricity. It is about strengthening SOEs to operate responsibly, professionally, and sustainably so they can contribute to Bougainville’s development,” Nanei added.
The Buin Solar Plant was funded by the Government of Japan and built by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It integrates solar panels with modern battery storage and backup generation to provide uninterrupted electricity, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support global renewable energy goals.
BPWCL is planning to expand power connections in Buin, including to the Buin District Hospital, Buin Teachers College, and Buin Town Market. Workforce development is also a key priority, with training programs to equip Bougainvilleans with the skills to operate and maintain modern renewable energy systems.
Further plans include the development of renewable-powered mini-grids for remote communities across Bougainville to increase household electricity access. Mr. Nanei emphasized that reliable energy supply will boost business confidence, improve public services, and attract new investment in South Bougainville.
Employment opportunities are expected to grow. “BPWCL currently has ten employees, but this will increase to about twenty this year. Additional opportunities are expected for local businesses in fuel supply, security, and general maintenance,” Mr. Nanei said.
Similar renewable energy projects are being considered for Arawa and Buka, pending formal arrangements with PNG Power Limited through a Memorandum of Understanding expected later this year.
Communities in Buin have already reported improvements in daily living conditions and economic activity, highlighting the impact of reliable electricity. The ABG commended BPWCL for this milestone, marking a new phase in the development and sustainability of Bougainville’s public utilities.
