Fiji Pine Limited and Nabou Green Energy have joined forces to develop and expand fuelwood plantations on unused leased land within Fiji’s Nabou Forest in Nadroga. This collaborative effort is part of a broader initiative to bolster the biofuel industry in Fiji, aligning with the nation’s renewable energy goals.

Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Alitia Bainivalu, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “The development and management of these plantations aim to create a stable, long-term renewable fuel supply chain.” A pilot project is set to commence this year, aiming to cultivate fast-growing tree species across an initial area of 50 hectares, with a goal of producing 150,000 tons of fuelwood annually.

Nabou Green Energy will play a crucial role by purchasing all harvested fuelwood, ensuring consistent supply logistics to the power plant. In addition, both Nabou Green Energy and Tropik Wood Industries will share technical knowledge and operational expertise to enhance the efficiency and performance of biomass power plants, thereby reducing operational costs.

The CEO and Chairman of Nabou Green Energy, Seong Min Kim, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, noting the advantages of biomass power over traditional diesel energy sources. He highlighted how this project is not only expected to lower energy costs but also positively impact the local economy, particularly benefiting landowners involved in the project.

This development comes at a time when Fiji is actively exploring sustainable energy solutions and seeking to expand its renewable energy capabilities. The foresight exhibited by Fiji Pine Limited to embrace this new direction reflects a commitment to both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

In summary, the collaboration between Fiji Pine Limited and Nabou Green Energy could have far-reaching implications for Fiji’s biofuel industry, helping to solidify a renewable energy framework that benefits local communities and the environment alike, while paving the way for a more sustainable future.