“High-Level Delegation Monitors Installation of Hybrid Solar System at INFPM to Strengthen Health Infrastructure and Promote Renewable Energy in Timor-Leste”
Timor-Leste Advances Toward Clean Energy Future with Solar Power Installation at National Pharmacy Institute
July 12, 2025
H.E. KIMURA Tetsuya, Ambassador of Japan, Ms. Paulina dos Santos, Executive Director of INFPM, and Ms. Katyna Argueta, UNDP Resident Representative, together with representatives from the Ministry of Health, EDTL, and other government institutions, during a group photo at the INFPM warehouse as part of the solar system monitoring visit
Dili, 08 July 2025 – In a significant step toward enhancing energy resilience and promoting sustainable infrastructure in the health sector, a high-level delegation led by H.E. KIMURA Tetsuya, Ambassador of Japan to Timor-Leste, and Ms. Katyna Argueta, UNDP Resident Representative, conducted a joint monitoring visit to observe the progress of the solar power system installation at the Instituto Nacional de Farmácia e Produtos Médicos (INFPM) in Kampung Alor, Dili.
The delegation included representatives from the Secretary of State for Electricity, Water, and Sanitation (SEEAS), the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Planning and Strategic Investment, INFPM, and UNDP Timor-Leste. The Technical Advisor for Electricity, who also serves as President of the Board of Administration of EDTL.EP, represented SEEAS during the visit. The Executive Director of INFPM, Sra. Paulina dos Santos, welcomed the delegation and led the tour of the facilities.
The visit provided an opportunity to directly observe the installation of a hybrid photovoltaic (solar) system - a critical development designed to ensure reliable, round-the-clock energy supply for the secure storage of medical products and essential pharmaceutical equipment. The system has a total generation capacity of 311.52kWP and battery storage of 1,152kWh, enabling continuous electricity supply even during grid outages.
Ms. Paulina dos Santos, Executive Director of INFPM, H.E. KIMURA Tetsuya, Ambassador of Japan, and Ms. Katyna Argueta, UNDP Resident Representative, engage in a feedback session with representatives from government institutions and partners following the site visit, discussing progress, challenges, and next steps for the solar energy installation.
The Executive Director of INFPM, Ms. Paulina dos Santos, in her remarks, stated: “I would like to express my deepest appreciation to UNDP for its continued commitment and support to our institution. This assistance is essential in ensuring we build a resilient health system that can protect the health of all citizens. In particular, we are especially grateful for the donation of the solar panel system to INFPM, which provides an alternative energy source to preserve essential medicines and vaccines at the appropriate temperature - even during power outages.”
“This support is not only about infrastructure - it ensures the reliability of our healthcare delivery and is a strong example of how solidarity and partnerships can help create healthier communities. To the Government of Japan, I convey my sincere thanks for your enduring friendship and contribution to the development of Timor-Leste’s health sector. Your support, through UNDP and other channels, is making a meaningful difference in the lives of people across the country.”
The Ambassador of Japan to Timor-Leste, H.E. KIMURA Tetsuya, in his remarks, shared: “I understand that solar panels are extremely helpful. Every time I walk around and see solar panels installed, I feel very happy and encouraged by this visible progress. It’s exciting to witness this kind of development taking place. I hope the project will be completed soon, as it will not only support INFPM but also contribute to the wellbeing of the people of Timor-Leste.”
The Resident Representative of UNDP Timor-Leste, Ms. Katyna Argueta, in her remarks, stated: “I would like to recognize the Government of Timor-Leste’s strong commitment to the transition toward sustainable energy. This is incredibly important - not only because the country has fossil fuel resources, but because despite that, the government is firmly committed to shifting toward green energy. What we are seeing here today is a clear example of that commitment in action.”
“I also want to highlight the dedication and active involvement of staff from the Ministry of Health. This project does not only cover the national level - it also includes two facilities at the municipal level. The enthusiastic participation and ownership from health officials at all levels have been key to driving the progress we are witnessing today. We truly appreciate and applaud that engagement.”
During the visit, the General Director of the Cabinet for Health Policy, Planning, Cooperation, and Development of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Narciso Fernandes, emphasized that this is a new type of project for the Ministry and highlighted the importance of ongoing support and capacity building to ensure that INFPM can effectively operate and maintain the system beyond the project period. Mr. Marito Ferreira, Chairman of the Board of Directors of EDTL, noted that this marks the first time such a large-scale solar system has been applied in the country, and stressed the need for strong collaboration and sustained technical assistance to ensure proper operation and maintenance in the long term.
The hybrid solar system is being installed under the Pacific Green Transformation Project, a regional initiative funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP. The project allocated USD 5.78 million to Timor-Leste to support clean energy infrastructure, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and improve national resilience to climate-related risks.
The solar system installation is expected to be completed by August 2025. Once operational, it will significantly reduce the risk of power disruptions to critical storage areas, strengthen INFPM’s operational capacity, and contribute to national climate goals by supporting the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
This activity reflects the ongoing commitment of the Government of Timor-Leste, UNDP, and international partners to promoting sustainable development and ensuring that infrastructure investments directly benefit the wellbeing of the Timorese people.
The delegation visits the solar control panel room at INFPM as part of a comprehensive tour that included the battery storage area, cold chain storage units for medicines and vaccines, and strategic storage rooms - all of which will be powered by the new hybrid solar energy system.