The Fiji Gas Hydrogen Dual-Fuel Generator Demonstration Project was officially launched on Tuesday at the Tanoa Waterfront Hotel in Lautoka. This initiative is a collaboration between Fiji Gas, the Japanese firm Obayashi Corporation, and New Zealand’s Halcyon Power, aimed at harnessing green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source.
Halcyon Power represents a 50/50 partnership between Tūaropaki Trust from New Zealand and Obayashi Corporation. The project has been in the works since February of last year and will be operational until January this year. It is situated at Veitari in Lautoka and utilizes a mixture of green hydrogen, produced from geothermal energy in New Zealand, and diesel to generate power. This innovation is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions while ensuring a consistent energy supply.
While the exact financial investment is not publicly disclosed, it has been confirmed that the Ministry of Economy and the Japanese government are providing partial funding for the project. Abas Ali, Operations Manager at Fiji Gas, stated that the dual-fuel hydrogen generator is now integrated into the power supply system at their terminal, helping to reduce electricity costs at the site.
Dr. Kenichi Ando, managing executive officer and head of the green energy division at Obayashi Corporation, expressed his gratitude towards the Fijian government for their support, highlighting the project’s global importance in promoting hydrogen technology.
In addition, Dr. James Ataria, deputy chair of Tūaropaki Trust, emphasized that this project is a vital step in demonstrating the potential of green hydrogen as an effective means to decarbonize both Fiji’s and the broader Pacific’s economies. He underlined the commitment to enhancing the environmental footprint of commercial operations, reflecting a strong accountability toward preserving the natural environment.
This project marks a significant milestone for Fiji as it pioneers the use of green hydrogen in the Pacific region, potentially setting a precedent for sustainable energy solutions in other Pacific Island nations. With ongoing international collaboration and government support, there is a hopeful outlook for the expansion of green hydrogen technology, contributing to a more sustainable future.
In summary, the launch of this dual-fuel generator demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to energy production, embodying a commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in the Pacific.
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