Attending the grant opening of Kosrae’s new power plant are Vice President Yosiwa George, Ambassador Ryochi Horie, Kosraael Gov. Carson Sigrah, Speaker Tulensa Palik of the Kosrae State Legislature, Lt. Gov. Arthy G. Nena, JICA resident representative Chang B. William, Micronesia resident representative Shinji Shibata, KUA general manager Fred N. Skilling. Photo by FSMIS
Kosrae has opened its new power plant in the village of Lelu, a $10-million project funded by Japan.
The new power plant is a component of the Federated States of Micronesia power improvement project, which includes two 600KW diesel generators, a line upgrade to improve power distribution, and the installation of underground cables at the Okat Bridge, funded through the Japanese International Cooperation Agency.
“Providing electricity to our people in the FSM is crucial to the economic development of our Nation,” said FSM Vice President Yosiwa George, who led Micronesia and Japanese officials during the grand opening ceremony on March 27. “This new power plant will provide a steady and reliable supply of electricity to the entire State of Kosrae, alleviating the power shortage we’ve all experienced in the past.”
The project was completed through collaboration among the Kosrae Utilities Authority, NBK Japan, Toshiba Corporation, PXI Power Solution Inc., and Yachiyo Engineering Co. under contract that runs from Nov. 26th, 2017 to April 30, 2019.
Last year, FSM marked its 30-year diplomatic relations with Japan. “JICA in particular has played a crucial role in assisting the FSM in areas as diverse as protecting historical sites to teaching mathematics in public elementary schools,” a press release from FSM Information Service said. “The Project for the Power Sector Improvement for the State of Kosrae is proof that FSM-Japan relations remain strong, with promise for sustained strong ties for the foreseeable future.”
George thanked Japanese Ambassador to FSM Ryochi Horie, for Japan’s “assistance in the areas of health, education, and infrastructure development to name a few.”
JICA's assistance, George said, has contributed to FSM’s economic and social development, as well as nation-building as well. “This is the embodiment of our commitment to our diplomatic cooperation and partnership to which we will continue to promote, respect, and honor,” the vice president added.