PPL SAYS URGENT WATER CONSERVATION MEASURES COULD RUN FOR 10 MONTHS

PNG Power Ltd has announced urgent water conservation measures at Sirinumu Dam as El Niño drought conditions continue to impact the National Capital District and Central Province.

The company says these measures could remain in place for up to 10 months, in line with drought forecasts, and will be reviewed as conditions evolve.

The dam supplies both Port Moresby’s city water and hydroelectric power, but reduced water levels are affecting generation at the Rouna power stations.

PNG Power is supplementing supply with diesel generation at Moitaka to stabilise the grid and minimise load shedding.

Residents and businesses are being urged to use power and water wisely — including avoiding high electricity use during peak hours and switching off non‑essential appliances — to help ease pressure on the system.

PNG Power says its priority is to sustain electricity and water availability for Port Moresby throughout the prolonged dry spell and has called for public cooperation.

Meantime, the National Weather Service has confirmed drought alert status for the National Capital District and Central Province, with forecasts of below‑normal rainfall through August