The Fiji National University (FNU) would like to generate 90 percent of its electricity through green initiatives in the next three years at its Nadi, Lautoka and Labasa campuses.

This initiative was kicked off with a contract signing with CBS Power Solutions Fiji Ltd, a Renewable Energy Services Provider and General Contractors at Namaka Campus in Nadi.

CBS Power Solutions will supply and install a 250 kilowatt solar photovoltaics (PV) plant with roof and ground mounted systems to generate clean energy source at Namaka Campus.

FNU’s Director Capital Projects and Infrastructure, Niranjwan Chettiar said the Namaka Campus was an ideal choice for installation of solar panels given the abundance of sunshine.

“The PV system is used to convert sunlight into electricity and this campus (Namaka Campus) is a good starting point for us given the amount of sunshine received in the western division,” he said.

After the completion of the project, it is anticipated that most of the energy needs for Namaka Campus will be generated by the solar plant.

“As part of this process, FNU will utilise what will be produced and exported back to the grid during non- peak hours. Apart from providing clean energy, a small portion will be mounted on the ground to allow our students and external collaborative research activities,” he added.

According to the Director, the University is incorporating green initiatives such as installation of solar panels in majority of its capital projects in an effort to

reduce its carbon footprint and at the same time embracing the use of clean and sustainable energy.

“Currently solar PV installations have been included in the Fiji Maritime Academy Building and Veterinary Training Hospital at Koronvia and this brings a combined Solar PV Plant size of 500kW at FNU,” he said.

Plans are also underway to have similar installations at Natabua Campus in Lautoka and the new Labasa Campus.

“The solar energy systems will reduce our electricity cost burden and at the same time reduce our carbon footprint,” he said.

CBS Power Solutions is a leading renewable energy service provider in Fiji and the region.

The company promotes and implements solutions that are clean, reliable and economically viable. It focuses on delivering panels that are suited to the harsh tropical conditions that are more specific to the South Pacific Region.

Director, CBS, Power Solutions, Amit Singh is grateful to be partnering with FNU in providing energy saving solutions in reducing carbon footprints.

“FNU can become role models to other universities and set pathways towards cleaner and greener campus. FNU’s solar rooftop installations can significantly contribute towards achieving the national goal to transit to renewable energy,” he said.

Site inspection and installation of the solar grid is expected to commence in the coming weeks.