Photo: 123rf
Samoa's electricity authority has cancelled its power rationing program.
In a statement, the Electric Power Corporation (EPC) said there is now enough generation capacity to supply power across the entire island of Upolu.
It said there were five leased generators fully operational at Fuluasou, and continued support from Fiaga, Tanugamanono, hydro plants (Lalomauga, Ta'elefaga, Tafitoala, Alaoa, Samasoni, Fale o le Fee), and solar energy sources.
"We give thanks to God for his provision - the sunshine for solar energy, steady rainfall for hydropower, and safe arrival of equipment that made this restoration possible," it said.
EPC said affected feeders - including Palisi, Industrial, Beach Road, Lefaga, South Coast, Alaoa, East Coast, and West Coast - will no longer be rationed.
"We continue to monitor the system closely and will keep you informed should any unforeseen maintenance or works be required."
On 31 March, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced a 30-day state of emergency for the government to implement measures to manage and restore power, protect public health and safety, and maintain essential services.
Fiame said the economic impact of the crisis is estimated to cost up to 16 percent of Samoa's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
RNZ Pacific Samoa correspondent Tipi Autagavaia said earlier this month that the five generators leased from a company in New Zealand would be used for six months, and two brand-new permanent generators for the EPC, which have been purchased from China, will be arriving in August.
Blackouts had been coming and going for weeks. Local Airbnb operators said it was "killing businesses".
Last week, Samoa's government emergency centre issued a form for gathering data on the energy crisis.
The form is intended to gather accurate information on damages to electrical appliances and equipment, disruptions to services, and loss of income resulting from the crisis.
Forms must be in by 25 April.
The EPC thanked people for their patience and support as teams worked to resolve the issue.
