Power Sector Development Project (PSDP)
Reliable electricity is more than a utility; it is a catalyst for economic growth, improved livelihoods and stronger communities.
In Papua New Guinea (PNG), where expanding access to reliable power remains a national priority, the Power Sector Development Project (PSDP) is helping lay the foundations for a more connected and resilient future. Supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the project aims to strengthen PNG’s electricity network while supporting long-term institutional capacity within the country’s power sector.
As Construction Supervision Consultant (CSC), SMEC (an SJ Group company) is helping PNG Power Limited (PPL) oversee the delivery of critical transmission and distribution infrastructure, ensuring that the project is implemented safely, efficiently and in accordance with international standards. Our role extends beyond construction oversight to include capacity building, environmental and social safeguards, stakeholder engagement and operational readiness.
56000
new customers to be served by the expanded network
2274
km
of distribution network infrastructure
111
km
of new transmission lines
Expanding and strengthening the grid
The PSDP comprises major investments across PNG’s electricity network. Under the project’s transmission component, the following will be delivered across Gazelle, Ramu and Port Moresby:
- Approximately 111 kilometres of new 66 kV transmission lines,
- 11 new or upgraded substations,
- Three switchyards and a SCADA system.
The project also includes the upgrade of an existing 135-kilometre transmission line from 66 kV to 132 kV in Ramu, helping improve network reliability, security and operational performance.
Complementing these upgrades is an extensive expansion of the distribution network, including more than 2,274 kilometres of new medium- and low-voltage distribution lines and mini-grid infrastructure. Collectively, these investments are designed to support PNG’s national objective of increasing electricity access, enabling PNG Power Limited to serve approximately 56,000 new customers while extending reliable electricity to peri-urban and rural communities across the country.
Delivering quality through effective construction supervision
SMEC’s multidisciplinary team provides technical leadership, design oversight and construction supervision across all stages of project delivery. This includes reviewing contractor designs, overseeing construction activities, monitoring testing and commissioning, assessing contractual milestones and supporting quality assurance processes. Our specialists work closely with PPL to identify risks early, resolve implementation challenges and maintain project momentum across multiple work fronts.
A key focus of the CSC role is ensuring that infrastructure assets are delivered to the required technical standards and are ready for long-term operation. This involves reviewing operation and maintenance programs, validating equipment performance, witnessing factory and site testing and supporting commissioning activities before assets are handed over to PPL.
Reliable power is fundamental to economic opportunity, education, healthcare and community wellbeing. Through our partnership with PNG Power Limited and development partners, we are helping deliver the infrastructure and capability needed to support PNG’s long-term growth and energy access ambitions.
Building capability for long-term success
Beyond physical infrastructure, the project places significant emphasis on strengthening institutional capability within PNG’s power sector. SMEC is supporting PPL through targeted capacity-building initiatives covering project management, procurement, asset management, operation and maintenance, environmental and social safeguards, community engagement, health and safety, and financial management.
Training programs, workshops and on-the-job mentoring are helping transfer knowledge to local counterparts, equipping PPL teams with the skills needed to manage and maintain increasingly complex power infrastructure over the long term. The project also supports initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in technical roles within the energy sector, contributing to a more inclusive workforce.
Supporting sustainable and inclusive development
Sustainability is embedded throughout the project. SMEC is supporting the implementation of environmental management plans, critical habitat assessments, stakeholder consultation programs and land acquisition and resettlement processes in accordance with ADB safeguard requirements. The project also incorporates social safeguard and community awareness initiatives aligned with ADB requirements, helping ensure positive outcomes for local communities throughout delivery.
Through close collaboration with PPL, government agencies, funding partners and local communities, the PSDP is helping deliver infrastructure that supports economic development while creating lasting benefits for people across PNG. As the project progresses, SMEC remains committed to delivering excellence in construction supervision and helping build a more reliable, resilient and inclusive energy future for Papua New Guinea.
Ready
to
connect?
Talk to one of our specialists about our role in the Power Sector Development Project.