KTF delivers first-ever solar infrastructure to the Kokoda catchment!

More than 200 second-chance secondary students at Kokoda College can now access reliable, renewable energy with the launch of a solar mini-grid for the campus. This pioneer solar infrastructure project for Oro Province is possible through a partnership between KTF and the Australian Government, launched last year through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnerships.

The launch of the solar mini-grid brings energy security to Kokoda College, powering classrooms, an IT lab inclusive of disability assistive technologies and vital infrastructure, such as a solar water pump, an incinerator to support responsible waste management and a solar-powered irrigation system for a campus garden to enable climate-smart agriculture.

As remarked at the launch by the Australian High Commission Papua New Guinea spokesperson: “This solar mini-grid not only provides reliable, clean energy to Kokoda College but also plays a critical role in the wider community’s long-term climate resilience. It’s a powerful example of how off-grid renewable energy can transform remote Pacific communities.”

Sharing a common goal, KTF and the Australian Government are dedicated to bringing reliable, clean and safe solar energy to rural and remote communities in PNG. At KTF's Kokoda College, this solar mini-grid will meet the increasing energy needs of an expanding rural educational hub.

As shared by Stainless Bill, Kokoda College's principal: "With the launch of our solar mini-grid, it will provide much needed energy at Kokoda College campus. This life-changing initiative will not only eradicate energy shortages but also empower our students to shine brighter in their educational journey by enabling effective teaching and learning."

Innovative initiatives like the solar mini-grid are the next step in solar infrastructure for remote communities, strengthening energy security and resilience in schools and communities.

Dr Genevieve Nelson, KTF’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “The solar mini-grid is a game-changer for Kokoda College. It will provide much-needed energy to classrooms, enabling better learning outcomes and building pathways into higher education and employment, particularly in education and health.”

We are so proud to partner with the Australian Government to deliver an innovative and ambitious solar grid project to our Kokoda College. This first-of-its-kind project along the Kokoda Track will not only light up classrooms and power our college but also encourage off-grid and sustainable energy infrastructure for remote communities across Papua New Guinea.

This initiative is supported by the Australian Government through the Business Partnerships Platform and the Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) Off-Grid Renewable Energy Partnerships.