13 Apr 2004

Marshalls solar power generation expanded

9:45 am on 13 April 2004

The Marshalls Energy Company, or MEC, has taken over the operation of the solar electricity system on Namdrik atoll.

The island has 100 households which pay 12 US dollar a month for the energy supply following a 100 dollar fee to get the equipment.

MEC says it has now become the first company in the north Pacific to deliver both diesel- and solar-powered electricity.

The system on Namdrik was funded by France in the mid-1990's but it was poorly maintained.

Last year, France agreed to inject more funds and contracted MEC to look for the upkeep of the system.

MEC, which runs the Majuro power plant, now plans to expand solar power systems to Mejit atoll.