The residents of Niuafo’ou are set to enjoy a more reliable and eco-friendly electricity supply with the commissioning of a new Niuafo’ou last week. As part of the co-financed Tonga Renewable Energy Project, this grid will provide clean and efficient electricity up to 24 hours a day, significantly improving the lives of the island’s 430 residents living in 208 households.
Led by Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala and Crown Princess Sinaitakala Tuku’aho, the commissioning ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including ADB Senior Country Officer Balwyn Fa’otusia and Australian High Commissioner Brek Batley.
“Tonga is preparing for a renewable energy future by reducing reliance on fossil fuels,” said ADB Energy Sector Group Director Keiju Mitsuhashi. He added that ADB will continue supporting Tonga’s transition by accelerating investment in renewable energy.

The project has modernized Tonga Power Limited’s control center and installed solar photovoltaic systems across several islands, aiming for 70% renewable energy by 2025. The minigrid on Niuafo’ou is part of this broader initiative, which includes projects in Ha’apai and the Vava’u islands of Hunga, ‘Otea, Falevai, and Ofu.
Co-financed by ADB, the Green Climate Fund, and the governments of Tonga and Australia, the project aims to bring sustainable energy to Tonga’s most remote communities, reducing their dependence on imported fossil fuels and boosting energy security.