On Friday 6 January 2026, the Yalu Solar Farm Project was launched and eight new power generators were commissioned at the Taraka Power Station — together injecting 20 megawatts of additional electricity into Lae's grid and offering long-awaited relief to households and businesses affected by persistent power outages.
The two energy projects represent a combined government investment of approximately K120 million, made through Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited. They continue the work of the Marape/Rosso Government in supporting this much-needed infrastructure for Lae City — the economic hub of PNG and Morobe.
When completed in approximately 12 months, the Yalu Solar Farm will provide 10 megawatts of renewable energy into the Ramu Grid, with 20MW of storage backup for Morobe Province and surrounding regions.
Eight new 1.25-megawatt generators have been commissioned at the Taraka Power Station, now providing an additional 10 megawatts of firm capacity to stabilise Lae's electricity supply. These generators are operational now.
Lae's current electricity demand stands at around 80 megawatts. Together, these two projects offer a more stable solution moving forward — Taraka 10MW now, and Yalu Solar 10MW within a year.
Work will also commence soon on Yonki (Ramu 2), providing additional power to the grid.
At the launch, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso MP noted that the aging grid network also needs upgrade, and thanked the PPL workers, linesmen, and women for their dedication and hard work. He acknowledged SoE Minister Hon. William Duma and Morobe Governor Hon. Rainbo Paita among other dignitaries, along with the Kumul Holdings Corporation Board and Management for enabling these important projects.
For A Better Lae.
