A team of power experts from Japan are assisting the Electric Power Corporation (EPC) in strengthening the country’s electricity systems. This initiative comes in response to the widespread power outages experienced earlier this year. 

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) team consists of seven professionals with extensive experience across both public and private sectors of the power industry.

The visit by the expert team last week mainly focused on providing hands-on technical expertise, conducting critical inspections, and delivering expert recommendations to help EPC improve the reliability and resilience of its diesel power infrastructure.

The Japanese experts worked closely with EPC’s General Manager, Afioga Faumui Toimoana Iese, and the management and technical team. They conducted in-depth inspections at the Fiaga Diesel Power Plant, visited the National Control Centre in Fuluasou, and the Tanugamanono Power Station.

Key activities included the inspection of diesel engines and generators, megger measurements, instrumentation checks, confirmation of operational parameters to assess system performance, identify areas for improvement, and preparation of a maintenance manual.

Speaking at the wrap-up meeting held on Friday, EPC General Manager Faumui Toimoana Iese expressed his gratitude for the visit and support provided.

“EPC is deeply appreciative of the technical assistance offered by the team of Japanese experts. Their knowledge and professionalism have been invaluable during this inspection, and we are confident that their recommendations will guide us toward improving the reliability of our power supply,” said Faumui.

The team leader, Tadayuki Ogawa, also shared remarks after the meeting.

“It was an honour for us to support EPC through this visit. The recommendations we have provided come with the hope that they will assist EPC in preventing future outages and in further strengthening Samoa’s energy systems,” said Ogawa.

JICA previously supported EPC through the Power Sector Expansion Project (2008 – 2015) and continues to assist efforts that strengthen Samoa’s power sector.