EPC Renewables signs deal for Fiji solar and 240 MWh battery project

Australia’s EPC Renewables and Spanish project developer Grupo Cobra have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Energy Fiji Ltd. (EFL) for the development of a large-scale solar and battery project in Fiji.

The Yaqara solar and battery project is to be delivered over two stages, with the initial phase comprising 22 MW of solar paired with a 40 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS). Stage two features 120 MW of solar generation and a 200 MWh BESS.

EPC Renewables, formerly EPC Solar, will be responsible for the financing, development, construction, ownership, operation and maintenance of the solar and battery facility that is to be supported by a long-term energy supply arrangement with EFL.

In addition to the agreement with EFL, EPC Renewables has also executed an MOU with Grupo Cobra, establishing a framework to collaborate on the delivery of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) works for stage one and future project expansions.

EFL said it will now work with EPC Renewables to finalize a power purchase agreement (PPA) by the first quarter of 2027. The parties are aiming for the solar and battery facility to achieve commercial operations by no later than the first quarter of 2029.

EFL Chief Executive Officer Fatiaki Gibson said the project will support the authority’s plan to reduce Fiji’s reliance on imported diesel generation and increase renewable electricity generation from approximately 49% at present to 60% by 2029, and 90% by 2035.

“EFL has set clear renewable energy targets, but ultimately our customers need to see these translated into projects connected to the grid,” he said in a statement. “Our focus now is on completing the necessary due diligence, negotiating a commercially acceptable power purchase agreement and ensuring the required transmission infrastructure progresses alongside the generation project.”

EPC Renewables Managing Director Daryn Stocks said the project marks a significant milestone in the company’s evolution from an EPC contractor to a developer, owner and operator of renewable energy infrastructure across Australia, Fiji and the Pacific.

“The Yaqara Project is a transformational opportunity for EPC Renewables,” he said. “This project establishes our first major IPP (independent power production) platform in Fiji and demonstrates our commitment to delivering reliable renewable energy infrastructure while creating long-term economic, employment and community benefits.”

Stocks said the Yaqara project will significantly reduce Fiji’s reliance on imported diesel generation and improve long-term energy self-sufficiency. The integration of large-scale battery storage will further enhance grid stability and reliability by enabling renewable energy to be dispatched when it is needed most. He also noted it has the potential to create a foundation for long-term economic development in the region.

A key focus of the development will be workforce participation and skills development. EPC Renewables expects the project to support the employment of approximately 200 Fijians, creating pathways into the renewable energy sector through electrical traineeships, apprenticeships and technical training programs.

“As an Indigenous-focused renewable energy company, we are committed to ensuring the benefits of the energy transition extend beyond clean power,” Stocks said. “Through training, apprenticeships and employment opportunities, we aim to help build a skilled local workforce that can participate in Fiji’s renewable energy future.”

The company said it will work alongside the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT), the Smart Energy Council (SEC) and the Sustainable Energy Industry Association of the Pacific Islands (SEIAPI) to develop local renewable energy capabilities and establish long-term career opportunities for Fijians in engineering, electrical and clean energy industries.

“Yaqara is more than a renewable energy project. It is a platform for regional growth, skills development and community participation,” Stocks said.

From pv magazine Australia