The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru fully endorses a proposed power project in the Southern Highlands province, saying it will support economic development, including the development of Special Economic Zones in the Highlands Region of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Minister Maru endorses the proposed 90MW Kaugel Hydropower Project as a transformational project of highest national priority. The proposed K2.5billion project will take 4 years to construct. “This is a transformational project. We have a very high demand for cheaper, clean, and reliable electricity in our country, not only for our people, but importantly to drive economic growth,” said Minister Maru. “The Kaugel Hydropower Project is precisely the scale and quality of foreign direct investment PNG must prioritize. This hydro can provide long-term electricity to Porgera Mine, the proposed Baiyer and Ruti SEZ, Mt. Hagen City and parts of Southern Highlands Province,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru said Kaugel Hydropower Project aligned with the country’s national goals for rural electrification, industrial development, and reducing carbon emissions. The project will also ease the power issues faced by people in the Highlands Region. Minister Maru then thanked the Managing Director (MD) of Kaugel Hydro Limited, Mr. Karl Yalo and his team for the tireless efforts so far. “We wish them every success to secure anchor customers to make the project bankable, and we also hope that they can secure license from the National Energy Authority,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru further added: “My Ministry and Department stands ready to champion this potential high impact and transformational project to demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the Marape-Rosso Government to renewable energy transition, equitable distribution of benefits, and setting the foundations for a better and brighter future for our people and country as we celebrate 50 years of independence and chart our way forward for the next 50 years.”