Number 1, May 2009 As we progress towards mid 2009, we are pleased to present this issue of the Pacific Energy News. This issue provides coverage of current national, regional and international energy issues relevant to the Pacific region including updates on the Pacific Islands Energy for Sustainable Development Partnership (PIESD) and current developments in the region. This first quarter of 2009 was a busy schedule for the SOPAC Energy Sector and colleagues from the CROP Energy Working Group with preparations for the Pacific Energy and Gender Network Regional Strategic Planning Workshop that was held from 17th–18th April and the Pacific Energy Ministers Meeting and Regional Energy Officials Meeting held in Nukualofa, Tonga from 20th–24th April. The 22nd April was recognised and celebrated as Regional Earth Day. Leading up to this, SOPAC worked with member countries to provide awareness in the promotion of energy conservation and efficiency measures through pamphlets designed specifically to promote these aspects. Two regional proposals were submitted by SOPAC to the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership (REEEP) for consideration along with support to a number of PICs with their respective national submissions. The regional proposal on “PICs Energy Efficiency, Auditing and Appliance Labelling” has been awarded funding from REEEP. An Identification Fiche was jointly prepared primarily by SOPAC and SPREP in consultation with the CROP EWG for submission to the EU under the 10th EDF for funding. On Petroleum, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) function on data and information services has been transferred to SOPAC. A Project Officer will be recruited by

Contents Update on Regional Activities 02 - 03 Regional News 05 - 07 PEGSAP Workshop 12 TPAF Workshop 13 PEMM REM 2009 14 National News 0 8 - 14Clean Development Mechanism 15 Biofuel Column 16 - 17Petroleum Column 18 International News 19 Energy Technology Developments 20 Announcements 21

SOPAC in the coming weeks to assume these responsibilities. For the second quarter, there are a number of activities planned, such as the TERI Workshop now scheduled for July; country missions specifically to progress implementation of projects and provide further technical assistance; and to map-out a response plan addressing the recent REM outcomes and PEMM Communiqué. For the next issue, we invite contributions in terms of news and opinions, announcements and feedback that you would like to share with other readers of PEN. Please note that the next issue of PEN will be in August. Lastly, we would like to thank those that have contributed to this issue. ENJOY READING!!

The Pacific Islands Energy for Sustainable Development (PIESD) partnership was founded in 2002 [an outcome of World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg in August 2002] for the promotion and expansion of partnerships in areas of common interest with aims to achieve a sustainable energy sector for the Pacific Region. The following is a brief update of ongoing partnership work with SOPAC:

Energy Data Collation and Database Development

Visit to Nauru Utilities Authority, 19th - 30th January 2009.

The Nauru Utilities Authority (NUA) has been recording generation data in hard copy format only and as such there has been limited analysis of the data. Recently, this has been digitised with new records expecting to be fed into the database on a daily basis. Training was provided to Glerin Dube of NUA to use the database log sheet template and assigned with the responsibility to update all the existing data into the database. The database log sheet template will allow for graphical analysis of the hourly load per day and daily generation per month. As per discussions and plans, the coming months will be scheduled for converting and updating data into the developed energy database. For more information, please contact Mr Frank Vukikomoala, frankv@sopac.org. Preparatory Study on the Programme for

Climate Change in the Pacific Islands: Renewable Energy

Visit to Nauru, Samoa, Kiribati, Papua New

Guinea and Solomon Islands, 14th – 27th April 2009.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in April funded missions to the above mentioned countries with Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) and SOPAC carrying out the study. For the various countries; presentations, discussions and data collation were carried out with the responsible Government Ministries, Departments and also including discussions with other NGOs and development agencies and organisations. The TEPCO-SOPAC Team were responsible for reporting the current situation of the power sector (renewable energy and energy conservation) in each country and to identify the potential areas of assistance needed in each country. A draft report of the findings with its recommendation has been submitted to JICA. For more information, please contact Mr Frank Vukikomoala frankv@sopac.org and Mr Ivan Krishna, ivan@sopac.org.

Joint EDF 10 Proposal The 10th EDF Response Strategy addresses the challenges of the Pacific ACP countries in the context of the Pacific Plan and the EU strategy for a Strengthened Partnership with the Pacific ACPs adopted in 2006. The first focal sector for the 10th EDF Regional Indicative Programme (RIP) is on Regional Economic Integration. The second focal sector is the Sustainable

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Management of Natural Resources and the Environment. In November 2008, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in its role as the Regional Authorising Officer (RAO) issued a restricted call for concept notes to be considered for further development and funding under the two focal sectors of the RIP. An Identification Fiche has been jointly prepared by SOPAC and SPREP in consultation with the CROP EWG and submitted through the RAO to the European Commission (EC) for consideration. For more information, please contact Mr Rupeni Mario, rupeni@sopac.org and Mr Solomone Fifita, solomonef@sprep.org.

REEEP Proposals SOPAC submitted two energy proposals to the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership (REEEP) for funding. These are:

• Pacific Islands Solar Cooker Companies (PISCCOs) and

• PICs Energy Efficiency, Auditing and Appliance Labelling.

The proposals were shortlisted and as per the REEEP requests we further detailed and resubmitted for further assessment. The regional proposal on “PICs Energy Efficiency, Auditing and Appliance Labelling” has been awarded funding from REEEP. For more information, please contact Mr Frank Vukikomoala, frankv@sopac.org.

Solar Cooker Fabrication Workshop The Energy Planning Unit of Kiribati, with collaboration with Ferris University (Japan) organised a two day workshop on Solar Cooker Fabrication from 11th – 12th February, 2009. The workshop mostly focussed on making reflector and pot holder; and a procedure for making hand made solar cooker was also presented. Kiribati Institute of Technology (KIT) have fabricated one solar cooker lately. For more information on the above workshop, please contact, Mr Kireua B Kaiea, kbkaiea@gmail.com, Energy Planner, Energy Planning Unit of Kiribati. Workshop Photos

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Regional Earth Day 22nd April, 2009 April 22nd was marked as Regional Earth Day and as for previous years, it followed the theme of creating awareness on energy issues throughout the region. The World Earth Day global theme for 2009 was the “Green Generation Campaign" which is a two-year initiative that was launched on April 22nd 2009 and culminates on the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day in 2010. As is the general concern among Leaders in the PICs, a sustainable approach to developing their energy sectors where energy security is of major importance. The need for increased development of renewable energy projects, realistic and holistic approaches in undertaking energy efficiency and conservation activities and exploring other sustainable alternatives that could lessen our dependence on fossil fuels is necessary. Burning fossil fuels emit greenhouse gasses such as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere which causes negative environmental impacts. These impacts are reflective and indicative of the vulnerability Pacific island countries face to the threat of sea level rise, changing weather patterns and climate variability. SOPAC's activities for this year’s Regional Earth Day included the development of an awareness flyer titled “Developing Cleaner Energy Options and Environmentally Friendly Choices for the Pacific" The flyer was designed to target the general public and school students providing awareness on renewable energy technology development and options for Pacific island countries. It shows the areas of renewable energy technology development that have been undertaken in the Pacific Island countries and also identifies some of the potential options for the future. For more information, please contact Ms Atishma Lal, atishma@sopac.org and Mr Frank Vukikomoala, frankv@sopac.org.

Publications Two new technical publications have been prepared by SOPAC. Printed copies were distributed at the Pacific Energy Ministers’ Meeting and associated Regional Energy Officials Meeting in Tonga from 20th – 24th April, 2009. Digital copies of these publications are available on SOPAC website: http://www.sopac.org/tiki-index.php?page=Energy+Publications.

If you require the hard copies of these publications, please just drop an email to Ms Atishma Lal on atishma@sopac.org. SOPAC Supported Earth Hour Saturday March 28, 2009 was marked as the Earth Hour, whereby, people from the world were urged to switch off their light for one hour from 8.30 – 9.30 p.m. The Secretariat of the Pacific Islands Applied Geoscience Commission (SOPAC) supported Earth Hour, an initiative of the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF). Millions of people world-wide casted their votes in support of the Earth and urged world Leaders to take action to fight global warming. For more information on how to join the Earth Hour visit www.earthhour.org

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REGIONAL NEWS

Pacific Energy and Gender Network (PEG) Strategic Regional Planning Workshop, Nuku’alofa, Kingdom of Tonga – 16th to 17th April, 2009. The following countries participated in the Workshop: Cook Islands, Fiji Islands, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. The purpose of the Workshop was to receive, review and provide specific indications and guidance to the finalisation of the PEGSAP 2009-2011. Its goal is: Gender equity in all aspects of energy development. The strategies and actions included in PEGSAP will strengthen the proposed gender mainstreaming activities contained in the Pacific Islands Energy Strategic Action Plan (PIESAP) thus contributing to the Pacific Islands Energy Policy vision of: “Available, reliable, affordable, and environmentally sound energy for the sustainable development of Pacific Island communities”. As adopted by PEG members, the definition for gender mainstreaming is: “to incorporate in all processes and stages of policies and strategies the implications and benefits to men, women and children, whilst recognising their differences to improve livelihood and standards of living” A number of recommendations were highlighted by the review including that:

• A clear definition of gender mainstreaming be articulated in the 2009-2014 PEGSAP and on the PEG web page. A starting point would be either adopting or adapting the ENERGIA approach provided as a contribution to the on-line discussion.

• Gender mainstreaming in the energy sector be targeted as direct technical assistance to national energy offices (or equivalent). For example, technical gender experts to be seconded to national energy offices to provide “hands

on” technical assistance. This will in turn build the capacity of staff at the national level and set-up simple frameworks to ensure sustainability of gender mainstreaming.

• Publications and materials be produced specifically demonstrating the application of gender mainstreaming approaches and these resources be produced in consultation with PEG members.

• PEG members are consulted when developing proposals for funding of specific PEGSAP initiatives to ensure buy-in and awareness.

• 2009-2014 PEGSAP be added as a strategic document in the Pacific Island Energy Policy (PIEP) and its strategic action plan attached as an appendix for ease of reference and to articulate a clear linkage to the PIEP.

• Monitoring and Evaluation on an annual basis of the PEGSAP as well as of national initiatives

2009-2014 PEGSAP to have three overarching strategies as follows: Strategy 1: Build national capacity to ensure gender is mainstreamed into national energy policies and energy projects. Strategy 2: Conduct study and analysis on energy and gender linkages and gender mainstreaming of the energy sector at the national and local levels. Strategy 3: Strengthen networking and cooperation with relevant international, regional and national institutions. A Group Photo of All PEG Participants (SOPAC)

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Green Productivity and Energy Efficiency Asian Productivity Organisation (APO) in collaboration with Training and Productivity Authority of Fiji (TPAF) organised training on National Training Program of Trainers in Green Productivity and Energy Efficiency from 25th-27th March, 2009. Three of SOPAC Energy staff attended this training. Energy prices are an obstacle for economic development in both developed and developing countries. Adopting energy - efficient techniques, systems, and technology by industries, large building complexes, commercial establishments, and public utilities is the most efficient way to reduce energy costs, resulting in increased savings. The rapid spread of industrialisation and urbanization leads to increased energy demand and makes production expensive, resulting in high output prices for both SMEs and large enterprises. The purpose of this course was to develop a pool of trainers on energy efficiency with advanced, in depth knowledge on energy efficiency, energy conservation, and energy management enabling them to conduct national training courses for a multiplier impact. This course aimed to bring together national stakeholders to promote energy efficiency nationwide. Energy for Sustainable Development Course The International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics (IIIEE) at Lund University, Sweden, is delivering a new session of an online course in the field of Energy for Sustainable Development (E4SD). The E4SD initiative is collaboratively run by the IIIEE, UNDP, UNEP, and the Global Network on Energy for Sustainable Development (GNESD) and its central aim is to provide deeper knowledge of energy's relationship to sustainable

development in the developing world. This course is scheduled from 20th April – 14th June 2009. Two of SOPAC Energy staffs are currently enrolled into this course. For more information, please visit these sites: http://www.iiiee.lu.se http://www.e4sd.org

In Other News An article on Ms Arieta Gonelevu, Senior Project Officer-Energy was published on the IEEE website. Tropical energy: her early enthusiasm for hydropower led Arieta Gonelevu, an IEEE member, to an island-hopping job in renewable energy. Arieta Gonelevu’s latest challenge is to light up the only school on the South Pacific island of Tongariki using solar power. It won’t be easy. Tongariki, which is home to about 500 people in five villages, doesn’t have roads or airports. Even cargo boats don’t stop at this island in the Vanuatu archipelago, about 1800 kilometers off the coast of Australia. It’s just the kind of assignment Gonelevu likes: a nice, old-fashioned engineering challenge—how to provide power in a robust and cost-effective way—that will also have a huge impact on people’s lives. “The happiest, most satisfying thing about my work is that what I do makes a difference,” she says. To Read more on this article, click on the link: http://www.spectrum.ieee.org/feb09/7473

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a) That regional and donor coordination delivery of energy services to Pacific island countries be strengthened and delivered through one energy agency and through one programme contributing to the development of a stronger energy sector and improved service to member countries; and

Pacific Energy Ministers and associated Regional Energy Officials Meeting,

Nuku’alofa, Kingdom of Tonga, 20th to 24th April 2009.

Energy Ministers from the following countries declared and endorsed the Ministerial Communiqué: Australia*, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Fiji Islands, Republic of Kiribati*, Republic of the Marshall Islands*, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Kingdom of Tonga, Tuvalu and the Republic of Vanuatu.

b) In this context it was noted that there was a need to ensure that energy policy and climate change policy remained separate where environmental aspects are managed by SPREP and energy sector activities by SPC so as to ensure that the socio-economic aspects of energy were adequately addressed. 2. Ministers underlined the need to strengthen human capacity development initiatives to support national and regional energy programmes including gender mainstreaming; and further noted on going need to focus on development of apprentice schemes for power utilities and alternative energy technologies.

Recognising, that strengthening the fragile Pacific Islands energy sector through addressing energy, economy, and environment in a period of rapid change, that energy security is an imperative for economic growth and human development and further that Pacific economies are the most vulnerable in the world to rising oil prices and the urgent need to reduce this vulnerability through mainstreaming energy security into national planning and budgetary process; improving energy efficiency and energy conservation; adopting financially viable renewable energy sources; and where appropriate regional approaches to petroleum procurement and coordination of regional services.

3. Ministers expressed the need to review and as appropriate strengthen national capacity in energy data and information gathering and collation, management, dissemination and, analysis on economics, social and environment to better inform national and regional energy planning and policy choices where this should be incorporated into the one energy agency. 4. Ministers acknowledged progress in the implementation of the regional bulk fuel procurement initiative and called upon CROP agencies to continue to support PICs to move the initiative to implementation.

Ministers considered that the key actions included in the Pacific Energy Ministers Communiqué (PEMM2007) still remained valid. In noting this, agreed that delivery against these key action areas had been satisfactory and recommended that the PEMM2007 continue to be delivered against by respective CROP Agencies and in parallel with their own energy sector initiatives.

5. Ministers encouraged the necessary actions that would facilitate investment in sustainable renewable energy technologies and in energy efficiency and energy conservation initiatives.

Ministers considered and endorsed the outcomes from the Regional Officials Meeting held from 20th to 23rd. Appreciating that delivery still continues against the PEMM2007 Communiqué. Ministers identified five key (priority) areas for action. 1. Ministers in noting the progress in the implementation of the Regional Institutional Framework (RIF) and the implications on energy recommended and agreed to the following:

* Nominated Delegate Representing the Minister

NATIONAL NEWS FIJI Fiji Grants Oil Exploration Licences – 18/02/09 Fiji’s interim Government has granted three companies licences to explore oil in Fiji waters while a few other overseas companies have shown interest to do deep sea mining in the country. Director Mineral Resources Vanasio Nasara told Fijilive that SPMM (Seo Tuinaivalu Company) which has Australian shareholders, Akura Fiji Limited, also with Australian shareholders, and the Isireli Fa-owned SPPG (South Pacific Petroleum and Gas Limited) with American interest, are going through previously collected data so physical dives and exploration can take place. “SPMM has been given the license for Bligh Waters, Akura for the Lomaiviti Waters and parts of Yasawa while the SPPG has been granted a license to explore the Baravi Basin,” he said. (Source: http://www.fijilive.com/news_new/index.php/news/show_news/13732) Gas Prices Drop – 24/02/09 A drop in the gas price on the world market has prompted two local gas companies to reduce their retail prices. The price of LPG for motor vehicles dropped from $1.57 a litre to $1.44. And both Fiji Gas and Blue Gas reduced their 13kg cylinder charge from $41 to $39.50 on Viti Levu on Saturday. (Source: http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=115116) Power Cheaper – 05/03/09 In a week, consumers can expect a reduction in their electricity bill.

On 4th March, the Commerce Commission said in seven days the electricity fuel surcharge would end. New commission chairman Dr Mahendra Reddy also said the fuel surcharge framework would be abolished at the same time. He said the FEA's customers were charged the fuel surcharge based on two variables – the cost of fuel and the amount of fuel used by the FEA. Dr Reddy said these variables had improved. He said in January the FEA was buying fuel at $981 per tonne and in February this was $988 per tonne. That price, he said "has dropped below the July 2006 price of $1302/t and is approaching the average 2004 fuel price of $756/t," Dr Reddy said. "The Monasavu dam water is four metres from spill level and is probably one of the best water levels in the past five years." (Source: http://www.fijitimes.com) New Hydro Station to save Millions – 12/03/09 The new hydro-power station to be built in the highlands of Nadarivatu will save the Fiji Electricity Authority about $25million every year, says FEA chairman Nizam Ud-Dean. The new plant could be the key to ensuring electricity tariff is kept low for consumers. This was the view of Fiji Electricity Authority Chief Executive Hasmukh Patel at the signing of a financing agreement with the China Development Bank. He said hydro-power generated at the new plant, which is located in the upper reaches of the Sigatoka and Ba Rivers, would displace 22,000 tonnes of expensive diesel fuel every year. Mr Patel said at the present prices, it would see a $25million saving for each year of operation. He said this would be a significant savings on our national fuel bill and also see savings in foreign reserves.

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In addition, Mr Patel said the new plant would help alleviate some national balance of payment problems and help keep FEA's tariff low to boost investor confidence. The Nadarivatu hydro power project is being constructed at a cost of about $230million. (Source: http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=116584)

PAPUA NEW GUINEA International Financiers Tour PNG Gas Project-29/01/09 More than 70 representatives of the international banking community, export credit agencies and rating agencies arrived in Port Moresby on 28/01/09 as guests of the PNG LNG project. Their visit itinerary includes project briefings, ministerial briefings and visits to key project sites near Port Moresby and in the Southern Highlands Province. They will be shown the PNG LNG project’s key attributes including high quality resources, a world class operator and strategically aligned sponsors, PNG’s stable investment climate and the project’s commitment to sound environmental and social outcomes. The project is seeking to raise more than $US10 billion in debt financing and is working towards a final investment decision in the fourth quarter of

this year with a corresponding first LNG cargo in late 2013-2014. (Source: http://www.pidp.org/pireport/2009/January/01-29-06.htm) ADB to Help Papua New Guinea Improve Power Supply – 18/02/09 The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is assisting the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) to develop their power sector by helping them prepare a Power Sector Development Plan. The draft plan was the focus of an ADB organized consultation workshop in Port Moresby, which was attended by Government, civil society, donor partners, and private sector representatives. “Consultation is an important next step towards finalizing the Power Sector Development Plan,” says Randle Rimua, Secretary, Department of Petroleum and Energy, with PNG Government. "The workshop will be an opportunity to discuss all the key elements of the Plan to increase supply of reliable and sustainable power at reasonable cost." The Plan is expected to include economic analysis, environmental and social safeguards due diligence of the main subprojects, climate-proofing analysis, and public consultations and an awareness campaign. “The Power Sector Development Plan aims to deliver more reliable, low cost power services to both urban and rural areas of PNG,” says Anthony Maxwell, ADB Energy Specialist. “At present, more than 90% of the country's population is without electricity” (Source: Pacnews) PNG to be Among First to Introduce Solar Cell Phones – 20/02/09 Papua New Guinea will be one of the first developing countries to receive the world’s first low-cost solar-powered mobile phone. Chinese group ZTE unveiled the phone, which is to go on sale in June for under US$40. The handset, called Coral-200-Solar, uses Dutch technology to boost the current from a single

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mini solar panel, which is located on the back of the phone and measures 3.0 centimetres by 7.0. A charge of one hour in full sunlight would offer 15 minutes of talk time, and that the phone could be charged normally with an electricity supply. (Source: www.postcourier.com.pg/)

Final Negotiations for PNG Gas Project Benefit Sharing – 04/05/09 Detailed negotiations started on 04/05/09 on finalisation of a benefits sharing agreement (BSA) involving landowners, provincial governments and local level governments for the historic PNG liquefied natural gas (LNG) project. Petroleum and Energy Minister William Duma said on 03/05/09: "I wish to reiterate that all parties – landowners from the four provinces, the provincial governments, LLGs and the National Government – depend on each other for this project to succeed.” "Their goodwill and generosity in these BSA negotiations will also provide a framework for all Papua New Guineans to benefit through additional revenue flows to the National Government.” "We have world-class and innovative legislation in place that could be a model for other resource-rich developing countries. "These legislations provide for direct benefits to landowners and other stakeholders and clearly define a 20 percent cap on net benefits to direct beneficiaries.” "The remaining 80 percent of net national benefits will go to the 99 percent of our six million people who live outside the project areas," Mr. Duma said. "Some of the 80 percent net gains will be redistributed by the National Government to the

four provinces impacted by this project as well as to all other provinces.” (Source: www.thenational.com.pg/) FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA Turkey Provides Alternative Energy Grant to FSM – 26/01/09 The government of Turkey has responded favourably to an application submitted by the FSM mission in New York and has approved an amount of $200,000 toward a project titled “Solar-Powered Groundwater Supply System for the Atoll Islands of the Federated States of Micronesia.” The mission in New York had earlier obtained an assistance grant in the amount of $25,000 for securing technical assistance in preparing an application to the Turkish International Cooperation and Development Agency for developing the application for this project. The project will involve the construction of a solar powered groundwater supply system on a selected atoll island in the Federated State of Micronesia. Water will be pumped from wells in pristine areas to storage tanks. From the storage tanks, water will flow by gravity to a water use area adjacent to every home on the island. Solar panels providing power for the pumps will be located on a large secure government building, such as a school or municipal office. The immediate objective of the project is to provide clean convenient groundwater for all the residents of the island. This supply of water will complement already existing supplies of water from household rainwater catchment and storage systems. This will be a pilot project and the selection of the atoll has yet to be determined. Site selection criteria include accessibility to the island, current school water supplies, island support for the project and state support of the project.

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The long term objective of the project is that the groundwater supply system will be replicated on other atoll islands, thereby greatly increasing the number of beneficiaries of the project. The actual installation of the groundwater supply system will take place in calendar year 2009. Final design of the system will be complete and all project materials procured before that time. (Source: Pacnews)

SOLOMON ISLANDS Sustainable Energy Project (SISEP) in the Solomon Islands The Government of the Solomon Islands received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Solomon Islands Sustainable Energy Project (SISEP), and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consultant services. The services included here is for the completion of a feasibility study, inclusive of a detailed technical assessment and preliminary design and financial viability, for a hydropower development of about 8 - 10 MW capacity. The study shall also assess possible options for expansion to satisfy potential future power demand. The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification invited eligible consultants to indicate their interest in providing the services. (Source: http://www.devex.com/projects/sustainable-energy-project-sisep-in-the-solomon-islands) AUSTRALIA

Australia Needs to Move Now on Insulation and Solar Hot Water – 13/02/09 Australia needs to get on with making households more energy efficient by accelerating deployment of simple but efficient technologies like solar hot water and insulation backed in the Rudd government’s economic stimulus package. Clean Energy Council Chief Executive Matthew Warren said “delays in getting these key aspects of the package through only stalls fundamental energy efficiency improvements that will help save money, jobs, the economy and the environment”. He said “this is creating confusion and uncertainty for the thousands of Australians wanting to take advantage of proposed incentives not to mention the thousands of Australians employed to manufacture and deploy these technologies.” The energy efficiency component of the government’s proposed stimulus package will help Australians cut their energy bills by at least 15-20 percent. Warren added that “investment in smart energy solutions for homes and businesses can only serve to cushion Australia from any difficult financial times ahead by saving money and jobs across the nation”. “It’s common sense really - energy efficiency measures are all about being smarter with what we have and reducing demand overall. This will have the added benefit of keeping investment here and protecting local jobs” explained Warren. The Clean Energy Council is working with all levels of government to deliver the right legislation and ensure energy efficiency and clean energy solutions are deployed nationally. (Source: http://cleanenergycouncil.org.au/news/showarticle.php?id=177)

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Australia on the Verge of a $20 Billion Kick Start in Clean Green Investment – 30/04/09 The approval of the federal government’s renewable energy target (RET) brings Australia to the brink of unleashing more than $20 billion of new clean energy investment. Clean Energy Council (CEC) Chief Executive Matthew Warren said the endorsement by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) is the penultimate step towards the creation of thousands of new green jobs and delivering the first big cuts in national greenhouse emissions. “We congratulate the federal government for delivering on its commitment to the development of a clean energy industry in Australia,” Mr Warren said. “Successfully deploying the 20 per cent target of renewable energy in Australia by 2020 will unleash the ingenuity of Australia’s energy industry, accelerate research and development and will reveal quickly the scale and potential of this important emerging industry,” he said. The CEC has been working closely with the government since January to fine tune the draft legislation released in December. “The refined RET legislation incorporates crucial changes which will ensure accelerated investment in clean energy so the industry can play an immediate role in reducing Australia’s greenhouse emissions and help drive a new green economy,” he said. The final step in delivering a revitalised green energy industry in Australia will be the swift approval of Federal Parliament when the RET bill is tabled in the coming weeks. (Source: Clean Energy Council, Media Release) TONGA Power Bills Dropped, Search for Alternative Energy Increases – 03/02/09 February heralded in the good news from Tonga Power Limited when their CEO announced at a Press Conference with the media, the decrease of Electricity tariffs by 29.91 Seniti per kilowatt hour from 102.67 Seniti to 72.76 seniti per kWh (29%) on Tongatapu. Similar reductions of

roughly 30% for the rest of the Island Groups, Vava'u, Ha'apai and ‘Eua. The Acting Chief Executive, Mr. David Wright, told the media representatives that Tonga Power Limited, is also looking at alternative sources of energy which is definitely a better investment for Tonga. Mr Wright said that "From Tonga Power's perspective, we think there are two viable options that are progressing now, one is a small scale use of Novel Technology. I won't go into its details now, but we have discussed with a US based company, the installation of the Pilot Facility in ‘Eua to complement and support our power-generation there. If the Pilot trial is successful, then potentially it could be up-scaled and used throughout the island Kingdom, so that's one option." Mr. Wright added, "We are working towards signing a Memorandum of Understanding with this US based company known as MAETEC to see if they want to supply the technology and also agree to install it here in Tonga.” Mr Wright further outlined the second option of Alternative Energy that is regarded viable is Photo-voltaic or Solar Power. He stated that "Photo-voltaic or Solar is on an Industrial Scale, and when it comes to the decision regarding additional generation on Tongatapu, we will be comparing it, which is about 18 months to 2 years away, and working from now, so that when we get to that point where we will make that investment decision. We will then be looking at whether Solar Power is viable to make an installation investment by that time." Photo-voltaic is a system which uses solar cells to convert light into electricity. Mr Wright emphasized that "The cost of that technology is coming down, and at this stage if you wanted to make a commercial investment today, it wouldn't stack up along diesel, but that might be entirely different in two years because the cost is falling and the efficiency in which the sunlight is converted to electricity is improving. So our feeling is that, in those two years time frame it may be viable." There is hope that with these alternative technologies it will offer ways to significantly reduce our dependence on diesel and fossil fuels for power generation. (Source: http://www.minfo.gov.to/)

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Tonga Offers to Host Regional Energy Unit – 24/04/09 Tonga is interested in becoming a host country for a regional energy unit, Tonga's Deputy Prime Minister Dr Viliami Tangi told a Pacific Energy Ministers Meeting in Nuku'alofa. He noted that the Pacific Island Forum leaders had decided to rationalise the functions of SOPAC with the work programmes of SPC and SPREP. Dr Tangi said that Tonga supported either unifying all regional energy units and programmes into one agency or the co-location of the various energy units and programmes of the CROP agencies in Forum member countries. "For either scenario, Tonga would like to register its interest as a potential host country," he said. In his opening remarks to the Pacific Energy Ministers Meeting April 23-24, Dr Tangi said that Pacific Island countries must address the challenge of energy security and explore renewable energy as a substitute for fossil fuel. He noted that Pacific leaders had recognized the need for immediate action on energy security following the first meeting of Pacific Energy Ministers in 2007. "The leaders recognize energy as one of the key requirements for sustainable development," he said. "It is imperative that we must effectively integrate energy into national planning processes, with the principle of equitable access to reliable and affordable energy." (Source: http://pidp.eastwestcenter.org/pireport/2009/April/04-27-07.htm) GUAM Guam to Receive $20 Million ‘Stimulus Funds – 13/03/09 President Obama's economic stimulus package has set aside more than $20 million for energy efficiency programs on Guam. But none of the money will go straight to the island's residents, according to the Guam

Environmental Protection Agency, which will manage the funds. Guam EPA Administrator Lorilee Crisostomo said the stimulus money will fund mostly infrastructure improvements, training and outreach programs designed to promote energy conservation on Guam. "These stimulus funds don't mean money in people's pockets. The only money you'll get out of this is the savings you earn from your reduced power bill," she said. Guam Delegate Madeleine Z. Bordallo announced in a news on 12/03/09 that the U.S. Department of Energy had released more than $20 million to the government of Guam as result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, or the economic stimulus law. About $19 million will go to programs administered by the Guam EPA's Energy Office aimed at promoting energy conservation on the island. Another $2.4 million will be made available to the Guam EPA under the Weatherization Assistance Program, which helps low-income families reduce their power bills by making their homes more energy-efficient. (Source: Pacific Daily News: www.guampdn.com) AMERICAN SAMOA U.S. Territories Receive $9.5 Million for Energy – 28/03/09 The U.S. territories are getting additional funding from the U.S. Energy Department under provisions of the federal stimulus recovery act and the money is to be administered by the territories’ respective energy office. In our case it’s the Territorial Energy Office. According to the federal agency’s distribution list, each of the U.S. Pacific territories will receive $9.5 million ($9,593,500.00) and this funding is based on a formula that accounts for population and energy use to ensure accountability. The latest round of funds is for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program, which provides formula grants for

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projects that improve energy efficiency and reduce fossil fuel emissions. For American Samoa, this additional money gives the latest total of $28.6 million in Energy Department funding and according to the federal agency, other funding amounts for the territories have yet to be determined. Additionally, the funding will support energy audits and energy efficiency retrofits in residential and commercial buildings, the development and implementation of advanced building codes and inspections, and the creation of financial incentive programs for energy efficiency improvements. The grant funds could also go towards transportation programs that conserve energy, projects to reduce and capture methane emissions from landfills, renewable energy installations on government buildings, energy-efficient traffic signals and street lights, combined heat and power systems, district heating and cooling systems, and other projects. (Source: www.samoanews.com) NEW ZEALAND Carbon Footprint Standard – 07/05/09 International Organisation for Standardisation Carbon Footprint Standard, Standards New Zealand (SNZ) is forming an International Review Group to provide New Zealand input to the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) work on “carbon footprinting”. According to SNZ, the ISO Carbon Footprint Standard will specify requirements for the

quantification of greenhouse gases associated with part or the whole lifecycle of products. The standard will support industries in New Zealand to operate in markets which need internationally recognised, transparent and validated carbon footprinting methods. IPENZ National Office has been trialling the Ministry for the Environment method over the past year with a view to measuring the related parameter “office sustainability”, and assessing what activities have an effect on this. It is obvious that replacing air travel with conference calls, publishing electronically rather than on paper, and printing on both sides of office paper reduce fuel and paper use, but it is not so obvious how the paper publications we send to Members should be counted. Audio teleconferences have the ability to “lose” external participants, but would some form of video teleconference provide the same interaction achievable with a face-to-face meeting. How much fuel is burned in building, transporting, and eventually disposing of the video teleconference equipment? What is the effect of replacing petrol cars with diesels or hybrids or electrics? While we now have experience in capturing the data needed to answer some of these questions, we could not yet claim much expertise in answering them. Hence, an internationally standardised method of doing so would have an effect on the Institution’s activities. We have an Auckland-based Member who has expertise in the area and an interest in serving on the SNZ committee. However, he has noted that travelling to the Wellington meetings would add either to his own or IPENZ’s carbon footprint, and so suggested that we seek a Member based closer to Wellington. For more information, contact: Cameron Smart Engineering Practice Manager practicemanager@ipenz.org.nz

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Clean Development Mechanism

News and Updates

Windows for opportunities to participate in the CDM process are now made available to Pacific Island Countries through the ADB Asia Pacific Carbon Fund and UNDP MDG Carbon Facility. Both facilities operate within the UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol Framework thus countries who can apply should have ratified the Kyoto Protocol and have established their Designated National Authority (DNA)1 Technical Assistant offered through the ADB Asia Pacific Carbon Fund are:

• Preparation of Project Development Documents (PDD) – through the Technical Support Facility.

• Project Implementation – through upfront payment against purchase of between 25% and 50% of expected CERs generated by each project).

• Targeted audiences are existing ADB renewable energy projects as well as new projects.

• Has access to ADB support - form of debt, equity.

• Complies with ADB operational policies, procedures.

• Project types are RE, EE, methane capture and utilization.

Technical Assistant offered through the UNDP MDG Carbon Facility are:

• Development of Project Information Note(PIN) – to assess the viability of the emission reduction project

• Carries out the baseline study for the project.

• Assist to facilitate the PDD and DNA’s approval.

• Establish a monitoring system for the project’s emission reductions.

• Pays cost of DOE to carry out the Validation, Registration and Verification.

• Provides guaranteed purchase of carbon credits generated through partnership with Fortis Bank

1 Parties participating in the CDM shall designate a national authority for the CDM http://cdm.unfccc.int/Reference/COPMOP/08a01.pdf#page=7

• Broad range of project proponents included such as NGOs, local and national governments, industry sectors.

• Project types include emission reduction projects that generate additional sustainable RE, EE, Clean energy (fuel switching to cleaner fossil fuel, Waste to Energy, Fugitive emission reductions (landfill gas capture and flare or productive use, small to large scale projects).

For further information refer to the following links: http://www.adb.org/clean-energy/carbon-fund.asp http://www.mdgcarbonfacility.org/

Other updates The CDM Pipeline now contains 4733 CDM projects (excluding the 104 rejected and the 32 withdrawn projects). 1596 of the projects are now registered and a further 202 are in the registration process. The amount of CERs issued is 282 Million CERs. The average issuance success is 97.6%. A new Programmatic project in South Korea was added to the CDMPipeline in April: ”Energy Saving Renovation Programme at Instant Coffee Production Factories of Dongsuh Foods Corporation in Korea” There are now 9 Programmatic projects2 in the CDMPipeline. For further information link to: www.CDMpipeline.org

Trainings

Capacity Building Workshop on the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), will be held in Suva, Fiji from 25 to 29 May. The Workshop is organised by SPREP with funding by the European Union. Further information regarding the workshop will be published in the next PEN issue.

2 http://cdm.unfccc.int/ProgrammeOf Activities/index.html

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In terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, biofuels provide an alternative to imported fossil fuels. Renewable green fuel should be promoted and to all intents and purposes the transfer to it by the PICs should be a win-win situation for their largely agro-based economies. Australian delegates at the 2007 Pacific Energy Ministers Meeting stated that the “PIC footprint as GHG emitters was barely measurable”, and advised against the imposition of “unrealistic economic barriers for the development of their countries.” While fossil fuels have continued to remain an important aspect of all PICs; it is the key cost component in regard to food where it is required in most countries for production, processing and transportation. Biofuels are defined as solid, liquid or gaseous fuels derived from relatively recently-dead biological material and are distinguished from fossil fuels, which are derived from long-dead biological material. Theoretically, biofuels can be produced from any (biological) carbon source; although, the most common sources are photosynthetic plants. CSIRO Developments with Algal Biodiesel Australian Science Foundation CSIRO finds algal biodiesel can be produced more cheaply and with fewer greenhouse gas emissions than fossil diesel, but challenges still exist. CSIRO Energy Transformed researcher Dr Tom Beer and his team discovered the humble organisms’ green credentials during a detailed life-cycle analysis of the benefits of algal biodiesel. “Our research has shown that under ideal conditions it is possible to produce algal biodiesel at a lower cost and with less greenhouse gas emissions than fossil diesel,” Dr Beer said. “The greenhouse gas reductions are the result of avoiding the use of a fossil resource for fuel production, capturing methane produced by the

processed algae to generate energy and taking into account the potential greenhouse gas offsets from industry.”

BIOFUEL COLUMN

Algae thrive on carbon dioxide (CO2), which means that environmentally damaging CO2 emissions from industry could also become a useful resource. Algal biodiesel could also offer a number of other benefits. “Making biodiesel from algae removes the issue of competing land use because the facilities would not be established on land that might otherwise be used to grow food and the algal farm has a very low environmental impact in comparison to crops that are grown for biodiesel,” Dr Beer said. “Although the findings of our study are very promising, challenges still exist in relation to cost, infrastructure needs and the scale of production required to make algal plants feasible,” Dr Beer said. “We see biodiesel from algae as one potential option for sustainable fuel production amongst a range of other technologies.” Source: http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/ Qantas Wants Government to Establish Biofuels Industry – 11/03/09 Qantas has urged the federal Government to help establish an aviation biofuels industry in Australia. The airline claims the Government's aviation green paper overlooked the development of a local jet biofuel industry that will be critical for the airline to reduce emissions. Airlines have been working to develop aviation biofuels they can progressively introduce to existing aircraft and fuel systems. While it is still early days, and issues remain about appropriate feedstock, aircraft tests over the past year have produced promising results. Airlines are looking at a variety of second- and third-generation biofuel feedstocks that do not compete with food plants or replace forests. Qantas is not the first airline to identify Australia as a potential source of aviation biofuel.

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Air New Zealand, which plans to use 10 per cent biofuel in its domestic fleet by 2012 in a move to reduce carbon emissions and cut costs, and European aircraft manufacturer Airbus have both suggested it has potential. Air NZ late last year successfully concluded a world-first test of a second-generation biofuel in a commercial airliner, using a 50:50 mix of conventional Jet A1 and fuel derived from jatropha seeds. (Source: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/business/story/0,28124,25168206-36418,00.html)

Jatropha Flower (Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bellyache_Bush_(Jatropha_gossipifolia) BP Becomes Leader in Cellulosic Ethanol Investment, adds $22.5M to Verenium – 20/02/09 BP has announced a joint venture with Verenium to build the world’s largest cellulosic ethanol facility. BP’s total investment - now $112.5 million, will be the largest by an oil company in advanced, non-food-based biofuels. The Florida-based plant would be 25 times larger than Verenium’s existing (and operational) cellulosic ethanol facility in Louisiana, which began operation earlier February and is expected to produce 60+ million gallons of cellulosic ethanol per year when at full capacity. This new, larger facility is schedule to break

ground in 2010 and commence operations in 2012. “This next stage in our relationship with Verenium demonstrates our real commitment to making cellulosic ethanol a reality in the U.S. fuels market in the near term. BP and Verenium together have the technological know-how, engineering capability and market expertise required to demonstrate that we can deliver better, more sustainable biofuels, more quickly.” said Sue Ellerbusch, President of BP Biofuels North America. Source: http://gas2.org/2009/02/20/bp-becomes-leader-in-cellulosic-ethanol-investment-adds-225m-to-verenium/

More regional and international news on Biofuel activities can be accessed at the Pacific Biofuel Network (PBN) http://pacbiofuel.blogspot.com/. The PBN contains disseminated information, news articles, research, jobs and business opportunities to interested members in the region. If you are interested in receiving regular updates of the PBN, please send an email to frankv@sopac.org.

PEMM REM 2009 Entertainment Pictures

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PETROLEUM COLUMN

Bulk Fuel Procurement Initiative – 01/04/09 Three more Pacific Island Countries have indicated their interest to sign on to the regional Memorandum of Understanding on bulk procurement of fuel, reveals Forum Secretary General, Tuiloma Neroni Slade. Senior Officials from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Niue and Tonga have expressed the interests of their governments to join the regional co-operative bulk fuel arrangement. Currently, Cook Islands, Nauru and Tuvalu have joined the regional petroleum project. They signed the MOU during the Forum Economic Ministers Meeting in Vanuatu last year. The regional bulk procurement initiative is also drawing some lessons from Samoa’s experience. “Samoa is very supportive of the regional bulk purchasing arrangement but it has its own commercial arrangement. It has discovered that its own commercial arrangement has saved the country millions of dollars. In theory, we are talking of significant savings for the region. “Their experience indicates the value of organised co-operative approach, said Mr Slade. Samoa has joined forces with its neighbour American Samoa to buy imported fuel, identifying lube oil and marine diesel as their common petroleum products. (Source: Pacnews) Transfer of Petroleum Pricing Information Services to SOPAC At the Pacific Islands Forum Special Leaders’ Retreat in Auckland in 2004, Forum Leaders agreed on a new vision for the Forum and mandated the development of the Pacific Plan for regional cooperation and integration. Consistent with this new approach, Leaders directed that a regional institutional framework

appropriate to the development of the Pacific Plan be established. Leaders have also emphasised that within the regional institutional framework the primary roles of PIFS (Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat) should be policy advice, coordination and assistance in implementing Leaders’ decisions, rather than the project implementation and technical assistance functions that it has acquired over the years. With respect to this, petroleum pricing information services has been transferred to SOPAC. From now onwards, SOPAC will help regional countries with petroleum issues and provide the database for petroleum prices and services. [Source: Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between PIFS and SPC/SOPAC on the implementing of the Review of the Regional Institutional Framework (RIF)] April 2009 Fuel Price Review Fiji Prices and Incomes Board announced the new fuel prices for the month of April on 22nd April, 2009. The prices of Motor Spirit and Premix Outboard increased while Diesel and Kerosene prices decreased. For Motor Spirit, the prices changed from $1.57 to $1.63 and premix outboard increased by 7 cents (from $1.47 to $1.54). And as for diesel, price decreased by 6 cents (from $1.33 to $1.27) and kerosene prices changed from $1.05 to $0.97. These prices are based on the March 2009 world prices. The Board conducts monthly price review based on cost of internationally traded products with a month lag instead of the two months lag. International price movement of refined product in March saw increase in FOB prices of Motor Spirit while Kerosene and diesoline 5000ppm prices are mostly likely to remain low due to decreasing demand. While demand remains abysmal, production cuts from OPEC and scaled back investments from oil companies are beginning to curtail supplies. Crude oil is now higher than the last review – March 2009. (Source: April 2009 Fuel Price Review Press Release, Fiji Prices & Incomes Board)

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS Canada Issues Energy Efficiency Guide for Industry Canada's Government released the Energy Savings Toolbox, a new, comprehensive guide to energy efficiency' for industry. The Energy Savings Toolbox, developed in conjunction with provinces, territories and industry stakeholders, provides a step-by-step methodology to help industry identify and capitalize on energy savings. Published at no charge from Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the resource offers a detailed reference for understanding and managing energy use in every phase of an operation - from designing and conducting an energy audit to carrying out cost-benefit analyses. "The benefits of using energy more efficiently are very clear - energy efficiency means fewer emissions and lower costs," said Lisa Raitt, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources. "That is why energy efficiency is a key element of our 'Turning the Corner' plan to fight climate change. But in a complex industrial operation, the savings are not always easy to spot. With the Energy Savings Toolbox, Canadian industry now has a start-to-finish guide to managing energy consumption." The toolbox includes an extensive technical supplement with spreadsheet tools for costing, analysis and other related calculations. (Source: http://energy.ihs.com/News/efficiency/2009/energy-efficiency-candada-1-09.htm) Siemens to Open Wind-Turbine Parts Manufacturing Plant In Hutchinson, Kansas Siemens AG (Siemens) will open a $50 million wind-turbine parts manufacturing plant in Hutchinson, Kansas, for the North American market. The company is planning to start construction on the facilities in summer 2009. The plant will employ 400 workers for the production of wind-turbine drive trains, known as nacelles, at the 300,000 square foot facility by the end of 2010. An adjacent 80,000 square foot

plant will provide repair and services for wind turbines. Nacelles are 90 ton boxes, which will sit atop the tower of a wind turbine and connect the turbine blades to a drive train and gear box. Siemens is planning to increase employment in its wind unit in US by 25% to 1,000 in the US, for a total of 5,500 globally. (Source: http://www.energy-business-review.com) Solutia to Supply Therminol Synthetic Heat Transfer Fluid to Iberese’s 50 MW Solar Thermal Power Plant in Spain Solutia Inc. (Solutia) will supply Therminol synthetic heat transfer fluid to Iberese S.A.U.’s (Iberese) new 50 megawatt (MW) solar thermal power plant in Lebrija, Spain. The plant will start operations in spring 2010. Iberese has selected Therminol VP-1 because of its ability to meet requirements of high temperature systems. The plant is located south of Seville. It is part of a plan supported by Spain's government to have 10 solar plants of 50 MW each operating by 2010. Therminol heat transfer fluid is used in the trough-shaped mirror assemblies to absorb concentrated sunlight and heat up to around 400 degrees C. The heated Therminol is used to produce steam that drives the power generating turbines. Therminol last announced a large global supply agreement in August 2008 with Flagsol GmbH, a subsidiary of Solar Millennium AG, for a 150 MW hybrid power plant that uses both natural gas and solar power in Kuraymat, Egypt. "European nations, particularly Spain, have expressed a strong commitment to promoting and achieving record breaking growth in the solar market, and Therminol is an ideal partner to serve this expansion," said Miguel Villagomez, global Therminol commercial team lead for solar projects. (Source: http://www.energy-business-review.com)

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ENERGY TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENTS

NIST announces smart grid plan The US National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) has announced a three-phase plan to develop key standards for a nationwide smart grid to deliver electricity efficiently, reliably and securely.

A smart grid is a key component of the Obama Administration’s commitment to moving the US toward energy independence and was awarded funds in the recently passed American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). “The smart grid will create jobs and contribute to the national effort to achieve energy independence and facilitate environmental improvements,” says Patrick Gallagher, NIST deputy director. NIST plans to engage utilities, equipment suppliers, consumers, standards developers and other stakeholders to reach a consensus on smart grid standards. It will also launch a formal partnership to facilitate development of additional standards to address remaining gaps and integrate new technologies. The final action will be to develop a plan for testing and certification to ensure that smart grid equipment and systems conform to standards for security and interoperability. NIST says that by early autumn 2009 it expects to announce the smart grid architecture, interoperability and cyber security standards priorities, an initial set of standards to support implementation and plans to meet remaining standards needs. Smart Metering gets the go ahead in Switzerland The first advanced metering project in Switzerland will see Echelon’s Networked Energy Services (NES) System installed in

5000 homes over the next 3-5 years. The NES system consists of highly integrated, advanced digital electricity meters that can be access online via an IP networking infrastructure. “With nearly 3.7 million electricity meters and 850 grid operators, we see a significant opportunity in the Swiss market,” says GÖRLITZ Schweiz CEO Ingo Schmitt. Meanwhile, in the US, Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP) has selected the SmartSynch/AT&T’s SmartMeter technology for a 10,000 until trial with residential customers in Texas. The trial will see TNMP monitor customer usage data every 15 minutes to provide better demand response and energy efficiency, as well as allowing customers to monitor and regulate their own consumption. US Researchers Develop Hydrogen Storage

System US researchers have developed a hydrogen storage system that could enable a fuel-cell-

powered car to fill its tank with sufficient hydrogen fuel in five minutes to travel 300 miles. The new fuel tank relies on a fine chemical powder – a metal hydride – to absorb the hydrogen gas. But the absorption process creates a large amount of heat, which has to be dissipated or the process slows down. The solution was to fit the heat exchanger inside the hydrogen storage pressure vessel. A conventional automotive coolant flows through a U-shaped tube that runs the length of the pressure tank and the heat exchanger. The heat is dissipated through the heat exchanger, which contains a network of thin fins made from aluminium. (The primary source of the above articles is http://www.energyefficiencynews.com)

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UPCOMING EVENTS The workshop will be held in early August, but the date is still to be confirmed.

Second Annual Biofuels Summit, Singapore, 25th - 27th May, 2009

Pacific Microfinance Week, 13th-17th July 2009 Radisson Resort, (Denarau Island) Nadi, Fiji Islands

Europe might be leading its way, but it is predicted that Asia would become a larger market in less than a decade. Countries like Singapore are set to lead the green development in Asia and are aiming to become the world’s leading centre for biofuels.

Pacific Microfinance Week 2009 will be a week-long series of events, meetings and gatherings of a range of organisations and individuals which have an interest in promoting the provision of inclusive and sustainable financial services in the Pacific.

Following the exceptional success of 1st Biofuels Summit in Thailand, Salvo Global is proud to present its 2nd Annual Biofuels Summit as part of its series of events dedicated to the biofuels industry in the Asia Pacific region.

STAFF UPDATES 2nd Annual Biofuels Summit will showcase

successful strategies to generate biofuels form of renewable energy. It will provide attendees with the opportunity to hear from a leading industry experts within all areas of the biofuels industry including governments, agribusiness companies,

New Appointment SOPAC would like to welcome Ms Reshika Singh. Reshika joined Community Lifelines Programme Energy Sector as a Project Officer Resource Economist on 9th March, 2009.

biofuel producers, investment and project finance companies, and technology suppliers.

Capacity Building Workshop on Clean Development Mechanism, Suva, Fiji Islands – 25th – 29th May 2009.

Reshika’s work will focus on developing economic and financial assessments for proposed new projects and support post evaluations.

SPREP in collaboration with UNEP Risoe Centre (URC) have organised a Workshop on Clean Development Mechanism at IUCN Conference Room. The objective of the workshop is to present the CDM component of the project, to discuss specific activities and explore the needs of the countries or the region in terms of CDM capacity development.

Before joining Energy Sector, Reshika worked as a Project Officer under the Community Risk Programme. Currently, Reshika is pursuing her Master of Commerce (MCOM) from the University of the South Pacific. Capacity Building Conference 2009, Nadi, Fiji

Islands – August, 2009.

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In March 2007 a workshop funded by the India

Government was convened where the focus was on Sustainable Development. The workshop focused on the two key areas of energy and water.

Share events and news!!

If you have an event, current national energy issues, projects & new

development you wish to publicize or think that “PEN” readers would like to know

about, please send an email to koin@sopac.org

As a result of the workshop a number of high priority activities covering a range of technologies were identified. On the basis of these priorities and the proposal for the Government of India in conjunction with TERI, SOPAC and the PIFS, a follow up workshop has been proposed.