Under a new MOU, the SPC and PPA will develop joint approaches and work plans when supporting member countries in achieving sustainable energy security.
They will also undertake joint consultations with countries during project development.
3 November 2011: The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) and the Pacific Power Association (PPA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), enabling the intergovernmental organizations to combine resources to offer greater assistance to Pacific Island countries and territories.
Traditionally, SPC provides regulatory assistance, technical support and policy advice to Pacific Islands countries and territories on energy while PPA works with regional power utilities. In 2010, however, regional institutional framework reform led to the SPC taking a lead agency role in the energy sector. Under the new MOU, the SPC and PPA will develop joint approaches and work plans when supporting member countries. They will also undertake joint consultations with countries during project development. The aim is to improve the efficiency and reduce duplication in services.
SPC’s new efforts on energy are guided by the Framework for Action on Energy Security in the Pacific, which states “energy security exists when all people at all times have access to sufficient sustainable sources of clean and affordable energy and services to enhance their social and economic well-being.” [SPC Press Release]