Conservation efforts in the Upper Tina Catchment in the Solomon Islands have gained momentum following a meeting between the Tina River Hydropower Project Office (TRHPO) and Guadalcanal Premier Hon. Willie Atu, along with Provincial Secretary Maesac Suia. The discussions focused on balancing environmental protection with economic development and the steps needed to designate the area as a protected site.
The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable development as the Tina River Hydropower Project nears completion. Officials confirmed that TRHPO will conclude operations in December 2028, transferring responsibility for managing the Upper Tina Catchment’s biodiversity to the Solomon Islands Government (SIG). While Tina Hydropower Limited (THL) will operate the facility for 30 years until 2058, SIG will oversee long-term conservation efforts.
Premier Atu acknowledged the project’s progress, particularly infrastructure improvements that will aid in environmental oversight. He emphasized the project’s role in reducing reliance on diesel-generated electricity, lowering energy costs, and cutting the country’s carbon footprint.
“Our goal is to ensure that this project delivers long-term energy solutions while safeguarding our natural environment for future generations,” Premier Atu said.
A primary concern discussed was the need to protect the Upper Tina Catchment from deforestation, illegal logging, and mining. Premier Atu highlighted the importance of declaring the area a protected site under the Solomon Islands Protected Areas Act 2010 to preserve water quality, control sedimentation, and safeguard biodiversity.
Provincial Secretary Suia called for improved coordination between the Provincial Government and the Project Office. He stressed the need for a biodiversity management plan aligned with national and provincial policies, with clear communication on construction progress and conservation efforts.
Mr. Sahibzada (ESSM-PO) emphasized community involvement, ensuring that local landowners and tribal communities benefit from the project. The Guadalcanal Provincial Government also highlighted the need to engage customary landowners in conservation initiatives.
Several key actions were outlined, including strengthening legal protections against logging and mining, sharing geographic data with the Provincial Government, and forming a Steering Committee to oversee conservation initiatives. Efforts to officially declare the Upper Tina Catchment a protected area under the Solomon Islands Protected Areas Act 2010 are expected to begin by mid-2025. A sustainable funding plan will also be developed to support long-term conservation efforts.
The project will continue collaboration with international organizations such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank to strengthen biodiversity conservation.
Premier Atu reaffirmed the Guadalcanal Provincial Government’s commitment to sustainable development.
“The protection of the Upper Tina Catchment is not just an environmental necessity but also a fundamental part of ensuring the long-term success of this hydropower initiative and its economic and social benefits. Our commitment remains strong, and we will continue to work closely with the Project Office, government agencies, and conservation stakeholders to make this vision a reality,” he stated.
The Tina River Hydropower Development Project is being implemented by the Solomon Islands Government with financial and technical support from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Asian Development Bank, the Government of Australia, the Green Climate Fund, Korea EX-IM Economic Development Cooperation Fund, and the World Bank.
