LocationsUNDP and Japan launch a 1-MW Solar Farm in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville
October 24, 2025
Aerial view of the Buin Solar Farm in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville
The 80th anniversary of the United Nations on 24 October 2025 marked a historic day for the residents of Buin in Papua New Guinea’s Autonomous Region of Bougainville as UNDP and the Government of Japan officially opened a 1 megawatt (MW) solar farm in the town.
For decades, the remote town located on the southern tip of Bougainville has struggled with frequent power outages. The majority of the town's residents lack reliable access to electricity, and most local businesses and essential services rely on diesel powered generators to maintain their operations.
From left to right: President Toroama, Ambassador Mochizuki and UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth attend an inauguration ceremony in Buin. Photo: UNDP Papua New Guinea/Hiroe Ono
The new solar farm was constructed under the Pacific Green Transformation Project, which is generously funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the Government of Papua New Guinea. The solar farm generates approximately 1 MW of electricity with 2 MW of storage capacity and is expected to reduce local energy costs by up to 50%.
It will provide a reliable supply of clean energy to the entire town at all hours and power both individual households and essential services like schools, hospitals, and businesses. It is expected to positively impact the lives of 30,000 people living or regularly visiting the town.
UNDP is conducting technical trainings on solar system maintenance for local engineers
UNDP staff gave ABG representatives and Ambassador Mochizuki a tour of the solar farm after the launch.
The President of Bougainville, H.E. Ishmael Toroama; the Ambassador of Japan to Papua New Guinea, H.E. Hisanobu Mochizuki; and UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Nicholas Booth all participated in launching ceremony of the solar farm held in Buin on UN Day on 24 October 2025.
In his remarks to the residents of Buin, President Toroama acknowledged the collective efforts of local leaders and implementing partners in making the project a success. “Bougainville’s development journey is built on the strength and resilience of our people. Through our unity, ownership and valued partnerships, we are shaping a future guided by our shared vision of self-reliance and sustainable development,” President Toroama stated.
The President stressed the importance of responsible ownership for the long-term sustainability of the investment. “In order to appreciate the change that has been brought by our development partners, we must take ownership,” he urged, calling on the community to take good care of the infrastructure delivered by the Government of Japan and UNDP.
The solar farm generates about 1MW with a storage capacity of 2 MW. Photo: UNDP Papua New Guinea/Hiroe Ono
In addition to launching the solar farm, the occasion also saw UNDP and the Government of Japan formally handing over a recently completed Innovation Hub to the Autonomous Bougainville Government. The Innovation Hub will serve as a multi-purpose space for training and building the capacity of aspiring women and youth entrepreneurs from South Bougainville.
The Hub will be equipped with high quality IT facilities with a reliable internet connection provided by Starlink. It will enjoy reliable electricity generated by solar panels installed on the roof of the building. This is the third Innovation Hub that UNDP and the Government of Japan have constructed in Bougainville, with the other Innovation Hubs having recently been opened in Buka and Kieta.
Local students perform the National Anthem during the flag raising ceremony, facing forward to the Innovation Hub in Buin.
Representatives during the handover ceremony at the Innovation Hub in Buin.
The event also highlighted the historical relationship between Japan and Bougainville, demonstrating the power of global cooperation. Ambassador Mochizuki, expressed his appreciation for implementing partners, stating: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the ABG, UNDP and all those involved in successfully implementing the project. This project reflects the spirit of our partnership and friendship which has been natured over the decades.”
Ambassador Mochizuki noted that as a collaborative initiative between UNDP and Japan, the launching exemplifies the power of international partnership in addressing pressing challenges such as access to energy.
He concluded his remarks by expressing hope to further deepen the bond with Bougainville: “We will continue to stand steadfast in our commitment to support the development of this beautiful island”.
From left to right: Ambassador Mochizuki, President Toroama, and UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth. Photo: UNDP Papua New Guinea/Hiroe Ono
UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth called the launch a particularly appropriate and privileged way to spend the 80th Anniversary of UN Day. By linking the renewable energy initiative to the UN’s fundamental principles, he stated that “the two important investments are right in line with the wisdom of the founders of the United Nations, in cementing the link between peace, development and gender equality”
He further emphasized the critical role of renewable energy in the region’s progress. “Only through sustainable energy can you make up the gap between where you need to be and where you are now”, he said.
Renewable energy is a key enabler to accelerate the transition to clean and affordable energy. Photo: UNDP Papua New Guinea/Hiroe Ono
There is a critical need for a stable power supply as only 20% of Papua New Guinea’s population currently has access to reliable energy. The situation is even more critical in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, where only 3% of the population enjoys reliable energy access.
“Schools need energy. Businesses need energy. Everyone needs energy, reliable sources of affordable energy to be able to build good lives,” Mr. Booth highlighted. “The solar farm in Buin is going to make a step change in the lives of the people of Buin and the businesses in Buin.”
The Buin Solar Farm’s daily operation will be managed by a state owned enterprise, the Bougainville Power and Water Corporation. To ensure the capacity of local communities in operating the solar system, UNDP is currently conducting comprehensive trainings on maintenance local technicians.
Photos: UNDP Papua New Guinea/Hiroe Ono
The Pacific Green Transformation Project is a multi-country programme that supports Papua New Guinea, along with Samoa, Timor-Leste, and Vanuatu, transition to renewable energy, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and create sustainable, green solutions for future generations. By investing in sustainable solutions and fostering cultural and behavioral change for a better tomorrow, these island nations are building resilience against climate risks and accelerating their green transformation.