14 May 2012: The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) has announced that US$4 million from the Pacific Environment Community (PEC) has been approved to supplement electricity generation through solar energy on the Federated States of Micronesia’s (FSM’s) dispersed northern Pacific states.

According to PIFS, the project will include the installation of grid-connected solar photovoltaic systems of 150 kilowatt peak in Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae. The project is anticipated to contribute 1.7% electricity generation to the national renewable energy target of 30% energy from renewable energy sources by 2020.

The PEC Fund is a commitment by the Government of Japan of ¥6.8 billion (approximately US$66 million) to support PIF Country projects focusing on the provision of solar power generation systems and seawater desalination plants. To date, Cook Islands, FSM, Nauru, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu and have accessed the Fund for renewable energy projects. [PIFS Press Release]