Samoa’s power crisis is being addressed with the arrival of five leased generators from New Zealand. The government declared a state of emergency to manage the situation, which threatens up to 16% of GDP. Power supply issues are being resolved gradually, with future assistance for affected residents planned.

Residents of Upolu, Samoa’s primary island, are anticipated to receive relief from the ongoing power crisis following the arrival of five leased generators from New Zealand. This shipment arrived on Monday as part of efforts coordinated under a state of emergency declared by the Samoan Prime Minister on March 31, aimed at addressing the power outages, maintaining public health and safety, and ensuring essential services remain operational.

The Prime Minister has indicated that the economic ramifications of this crisis could entail losses amounting to 16 percent of Samoa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In a report to RNZ Pacific, correspondent Tipi Autagavaia highlighted the government’s incremental approach to mitigating the power supply challenges while under the emergency declaration, which remains in effect until April 29.

Autagavaia confirmed that the generators are expected to be connected to the main power supplies at the Fuluasou and Fiaga power stations, with the goal of having them operational by the 15th of this month. In addition, two larger, permanent generators sourced from China are scheduled for arrival in August, marking a long-term solution to the crisis.

The five generators leased from New Zealand will be utilized for six months until the larger generators are fully integrated. While some areas of Upolu are receiving power without interruption, power rationing remains in effect for certain communities. Autagavaia noted that the National Emergency Operations Center indicated continued power rationing in some regions, albeit with progress being made to address the technical issues at power stations.

Furthermore, the government is preparing to assist businesses and households that have suffered damage to electrical appliances due to the power disruptions. Details regarding this assistance will be released later this week through a public notice from the disaster committee, aimed at informing residents on the next steps in support initiatives.

In summary, the arrival of leased generators from New Zealand brings hope to Samoa amidst a power crisis that has triggered a state of emergency. The government’s efforts to address the crisis, while costly to the nation’s GDP, include immediate support measures and plans for permanent solutions through new generators. As technical challenges are progressively resolved, assistance for affected residents is also being arranged.

Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz

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