2026.10.23
The Government of Papua New Guinea and The Government of Japan proudly commemorated the successful completion of the Ramu Transmission System Reinforcement Project (RTSRP) at the Taraka Substation in Lae, Morobe Province, on Friday 9 October 2026.
This landmark project represents a major investment in strengthening PNG's energy infrastructure, improving electricity reliability, enhancing energy security, and supporting sustainable economic growth and development across the country.
The ceremony was attended by Hon. James MARAPE, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea; Hon. Rainbo PAITA, Governor of Morobe Province; Hon. Sir Ano PALA, Minister for National Planning; Hon. Peter ISOAIMO, Minister for Energy; Hon. Richard MARU, Minister for International Trade and Investment and PNG Power; Hon. Koni IGUAN, Deputy Speaker of Parliament; senior government officials; development partners; PNG Power Limited (PPL) executives; community leaders; and other distinguished stakeholders.
Also in attendance were His Excellency MOCHIZUKI Hisanobu, Ambassador of Japan to PNG, and Mr. SHIROUZU Kenichi, Chief Representative of JICA PNG Office, underscoring the enduring partnership between PNG and Japan.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Marape conveyed PNG's sincere appreciation to the Government of Japan through JICA for the continued support in developing the nation's critical infrastructure and improving the livelihoods of Papua New Guineans. He emphasized that Japan has consistently been a trusted partner, especially during times of need.
Morobe Governor Paita also commended JICA for its longstanding commitment to PNG's development. Reflecting on the naming of Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport, he noted that "Tomodachi" means "friend" in Japanese and symbolizes the deep friendship, mutual trust, and cooperation shared between the people of PNG and Japan.
Funded through Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA) and implemented by JICA in partnership with PNG Power Limited, the project reinforces the Ramu Grid, which supplies power to Lae and much of the Momase Region. Major works included the construction of approximately 134 kilometres of additional 132kV transmission lines, 326 transmission towers, telecommunication systems, and upgrades to the Ramu Switchyard and the Singsing, Erap, and Taraka substations valued at over PGK270 million.
Together, these improvements strengthen the reliability of electricity supply, provide greater redundancy in the transmission system, and increase the Ramu Grid's capacity to meet future electricity demand. In Lae, the project is expected to reduce both the frequency and duration of transmission-related power outages to approximately one-quarter of previous levels. The introduction of low-loss transmission lines will also reduce transmission losses and contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
By expanding reliable and inclusive access to electricity, the project is expected to help improve living standards for approximately 3.4 million people while supporting further economic development across Papua New Guinea.
The project builds on JICA’s longstanding support to PNG's energy sector, including the Warangoi Hydropower Project, Rouna 4 Hydropower Project, and Yonki Hydropower Project. Together, these investments demonstrate Japan's commitment to supporting PNG's vision of expanding access to reliable and affordable electricity for its people.
Through these partnerships, JICA continues to contribute to PNG's sustainable development, economic progress, and improved quality of life for communities throughout the country.
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