MMERE and JICA Welcomes JICA Expert Takeshi Kikukawa to Boost Renewable Energy Development

The Ministry of Mines, Energy & Rural Electrification (MMERE) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Solomon Islands are pleased to announce the arrival of JICA expert, Mr Takeshi KIKUKAWA.

Over the next two years, Mr Kikukawa will be working closely with the Ministry as a Renewable Energy Promotion advisor. His role will be to provide technical advice and assistance in RE policy formulation and implementation for achieving energy transition, establish the Electricity Sector Planning Agency within the Ministry to develop an Integrated Resource Planning & Electrification Plan, and provide technical advice and assistance to MMERE’s officers for energy data collection, storage, and analysis, as well as the tariff mechanism, structure, and setting.

The Ministry, on the other hand, will coordinate Mr. Kikukawa’s activities and ensure that his expertise is effectively utilized to further the country’s energy goals.

Mr. KIKUKAWA, with 40 years of experience in the energy sector and having worked in various countries such as PNG, Fiji, Kenya and Nigeria, is excited to visit the country for the first time. His expertise in renewable energy and his successful track record in implementing energy projects will be invaluable to the Solomon Islands. His enthusiasm is palpable as he expresses, “It is my pleasure to be here, and I look forward to working closely with colleagues and partners in the Solomon Islands.” Dr Chris Vehe, the PS of MMERE, responded, “The Ministry is pleased to welcome JICA’s renewed support in the energy sector and the arrival of the JICA advisor.

We are fully prepared for the upcoming project and look forward to working closely with Mr. Kikukawa.”

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-JICA