It is an integrated biomass energy project to provide a reliable, sustainable and competitive renewable energy solution for PNG. The project involves the development of 18,000+ hectares of FSC certified forestry plantations, using underutilised Kunai grasslands in the Markham Valley, and the development of a 30 MW Biomass Power Plant to generate electricity for supply to the RAMU Grid. The forestr
y development will require the planting of more than 20 million trees and will managed in an internationally sustainable manner. The plantations will provide a dedicated fibre source for the power plant, which will require the annual supply and harvesting of over 200,000 bone dry tonnes of wood to support the 30 MW power project. The trees will be harvested every 4-7 years. The PNG Biomass Power Project is expected to generate the following sizeable benefits for PNG and its citizens:
• Creation of over 500 direct and 4,000 indirect jobs in a region that has traditionally faced significant unemployment for its youth.
• The saving of over 100,000 tonnes of CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) emissions a year for each 15 MW unit, compared to the use of diesel and high sulphur fuel oil for power generation. 30 MW of power will reduce CO2 emissions by 200,000 tonnes per year.
• The provision of stable and competitively priced power to support community infrastructure, (schools, medical and business), to drive and underpin industrial development in Morobe and Madang provinces, and to enhance PNG’s energy independence.
• A long term reduction in the exposure to power prices associated with increasing imported diesel and HFO costs.
• Substantial enhancement of PNG’s international environmental reputation and demonstration of the country’s commitment to sustainable energy
