King Tupou VI yesterday officially opened Tonga’s largest wind farm in Lapaha.
His Majesty King Tupou VI yesterday presided over the commissioning of Tonga’s largest wind farm at Lapaha, Tongatapu, marking a major step forward in the nation’s renewable energy journey.
Situated in Lapaha on the eastern side of Tongatapu, the new facility features three 750 kW turbines, a combined capacity of 2.25 MW, funded and constructed with support from the People’s Republic of China. This makes it the country’s second wind power project, but now its biggest to date.
The Chinese Ambassador H.E Mr. Liu Weimin said, yesterday’s event indicated the commitment and constant cooperation between two countries in the area of green energy and sustainable development. He also stated that among the Pacific islands, Tonga has been proactive in addressing climate change and promoting renewable energy.
Prime Minister Dr Aisake Valu Eke added the turbines will “reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels” and help lower Tonga’s high electricity tariffs.
The project directly supports Tonga Energy Roadmap Plus targets, 70 % renewable electricity by 2030 and 100 % by 2035, reducing fossil‑fuel reliance and stabilising power costs. Local noble,
Prince Kalaniuvalu Fotofili of Lapaha, welcomed the development, emphasising the community’s pride in contributing to national energy transformation.
Technical teams will begin grid integration tests with authorities expect full commercial operations within weeks, advancing Tonga’s plan for sustainable, affordable power.
