Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa addressed the nation about the significant challenges in electricity service provision marked by frequent power outages affecting the island of Upolu. 

Fiame delivered a special statement on Monday afternoon on the current status of electricity issues impacting households, businesses, and the various villages on the main island.

She spoke about the Electric Power Corporation (EPC) supported by the government to promptly restore reliable electricity across the island. 

Her full statement is noted below: 

"I wish to inform that the Corporation continues to work diligently and urgently to address all issues, aiming to resolve these challenges and restore reliable and safe electricity services to our nation as soon as possible.

Causes of the Power Outages

Since February 2025, our electricity supply has faced major disruptions due to 3l key factors:

1. Underground Cable Failures – A major fault in the main underground cable between Fiaga and Fuluasou led to a total blackout across Upolu on 23 February. Another section of the same cable failed on 25 February, requiring further repairs before power could be restored.

2. Severe Weather – Heavy storms on 9 March caused extensive damage to power lines and poles, leading to widespread outages across the island.

3. Generator Breakdowns – On 15 March, three key generators failed, significantly reducing power generation:

· Fiaga No.1 Diesel Engine (5 MW) – A piston failure requires repairs that will take 10 to 12 months due to part shortages.

· Tanugamanono No.7 Diesel Engine (3 MW) – A turbocharger issue requires four weeks of repair.

· Taelefaga No.1 Hydro Plant (2 MW) – A bearing failure needs three months of repair work.

With a total loss of 10 MW in power supply, EPC had to introduce a power rationing schedule starting 16 March 2025, to manage the limited electricity available.

 Solutions to Address the Issue

The government and EPC have implemented the following measures to address the power crisis:

- Emergency Power Supply – Five rental generators (5 MW total) will arrive by 5 April 2025, to help with the power shortage.

- New Diesel Generators – The government is finalising the purchase of two diesel generators (4 MW) from HNAC, China, expected to arrive in August 2025.

- Repairs in Progress – Work continues restoring the Tanugamanono, No.7 and Taelefaga No.1 generators, which will add 5 MW once completed.

- Renewable Energy Expansion – A 10 MW solar farm with a 10 MWh battery storage system is set to launch in December 2025, increasing energy capacity by 20 per cent. 

The government and EPC are committed to strengthening and expanding power generation to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for Samoa. The electricity demand has significantly increased over the past two years, and these strategic solutions will help prevent future power shortages.

I again extend sincere thanks and appreciation to all who have been affected by this electricity crisis, for your understanding and patience, especially for your continued support and endurance. The Electric Power Corporation with the Government’s support are working to address the current situation to return electricity supply to meet the needs of the country