Local telecommunication provider Vodafone Samoa is expecting 20 more generators to boost backup power supply to their signal towers which over the past few weeks have been impacted by the power outages.

Despite proactive steps taken since the outages started becoming serious, some areas were left without connectivity after the power outage on Sunday.

The Aleisa coast was without connectivity for most of the weekend.

"The power rationing started on Friday night it was on and off, but went off completely from six in the morning on Saturday and was back on at six in the evening. Luckily it was daytime so there was nothing to worry about as were able to continue with our chores for the day," said Aleisa resident Pokazsu Mene. 

"The power was off almost the whole day but, luckily  I was at areas where the university power was not off, but at home, we had to wait until the power was back on to iron the sheets for church decoration as we were on duty decoration for the week and also affecting my university studies," said Maria.

"It was fortunate that when the power was off it was during daylight, even though the internet connection was down so I was unable to work from home, such as reports for my work. But luckily it came back in the evening," said Tiarre Lopati.

Last month the company told the Samoa Observer that it had plans to strengthen its infrastructure and improve its ability to weather similar challenges in the future. While immediate concerns include the rising costs of fuel to keep mobile towers powered, Vodafone Samoa was also exploring long-term solutions.

"In the short term, there is a heavy cost of fuel to run mobile towers on generators for 16 hours a day. This is impacting our operational expenses, but we are determined to provide connectivity," Vodafone Samoa chief executive officer Rana Bose had said. 

"We are exploring options to expand our investment in backup power systems and upgrading our network with more energy-efficient equipment. We have already installed solar power at Monono Island mobile tower as a pilot and are observing its performance."