Powering 49 villages through solar electrification
Rainbow Power Company signed a national contract with Western Power, the state-owned energy provider for Papua New Guinea, to deliver a major rural electrification program. The project supplies reliable solar power to 49 villages across the Western Province, providing electricity to more than 3,000 households and improving daily life for over 30,000 people.
The program represents one of the largest renewable energy initiatives of its kind in the Pacific. By deploying mini-grids and home solar systems across isolated communities, the project is helping to replace kerosene lamps and diesel generation with safe, renewable electricity.
Project Overview
Under the contract, Rainbow Power Company will supply, design, and provide consultancy and training for Western Power’s team during implementation. The project includes the manufacture and export of modular solar mini-grid systems, supported by home-scale solar kits for individual households in areas beyond the reach of centralised grids.
Each installation is designed for maximum reliability and minimal maintenance. The systems provide essential electricity for lighting, communications, refrigeration, and community facilities such as schools, health posts, and administration offices.
System details:
- Client: Western Power, Papua New Guinea
- System type: Off-grid solar mini-grid and home systems
- Scale: 49 villages
- Solar capacity: 650 kW total
- Battery storage: 11 MWh
- Configuration: 42 village mini-grids and 275 individual home systems
- Components: 3,250 Trina solar panels, SMA inverters, German sealed batteries
System Design and Delivery
Each village mini-grid is equipped with a 13.8 kW solar-battery system producing 240/415 V AC power. The configuration includes Trina solar panels, SMA inverters, and long-life sealed batteries, all pre-engineered for rapid deployment.
In addition to the community mini-grids, 275 standalone solar home systems have been distributed for households located further from village centres. These smaller systems provide basic lighting and charging capacity, bringing electricity access to families for the first time.
Rainbow Power Company’s role extends beyond system supply. The company is providing technical training and consultancy services to Western Power staff to support local installation, maintenance, and long-term system management.
What They Said
“This project is transformative for remote Papua New Guinea. By providing solar power to entire villages, communities gain reliable electricity for the first time, supporting health, education, and local business. It demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration and technology.”
— Paul O’Reilly, International Business Development Manager, Rainbow Power Company
Outcomes
When fully operational, the systems will supply power to approximately 3,400 homes and benefit more than 33,000 people. Electricity access will extend evening hours for study and work, enable refrigeration for medical and food storage, and improve communication through phone and radio charging.
Replacing diesel generators and kerosene lamps will significantly reduce emissions and improve air quality, creating healthier and safer living environments. The project also supports local employment through installation and maintenance training.
Project Suitability
This project showcases Rainbow Power Company’s expertise in delivering community-scale energy infrastructure for national and regional governments. The modular design and robust components make it ideal for electrification programs in countries with dispersed populations and limited grid coverage.
Interested in community-scale electrification projects?
📞 Call +61 2 6689 1430 or email team@rpc.com.au
