PNG Power Initiates Major Rebuild of Lae's Electricity Network

PNG Power Limited has commenced a significant overhaul of Lae's electricity network to enhance reliability after years of neglect. The initiative addresses generation, transmission, and distribution systems that have struggled to meet increasing demand.

CEO Paul Bayly highlighted that ongoing outages are due to longstanding maintenance issues, insufficient generation capacity, and inadequate backup transmission lines. Lae’s power stability is closely linked to the Yonki hydro power station, which has been affected by low dam levels.

To improve the situation, a new 133kV transmission line is being installed, providing a backup option. Additionally, PNG Power is adding eight megawatts of new generation capacity at Taraka, expected to be operational by the end of December, which will help address the current power shortfall.