A tunnel boring machine (TBM) for the Tina River Hydro Project has been delivered to the construction site, marking a major step forward in the Solomon Islands’ first large-scale hydropower development.
When fully assembled, the TBM will measure 75m in length and will excavate a 3.2km tunnel through gravel and sandstone. The tunnel will channel water from the dam to the powerhouse, where electricity will be generated. Tunnelling is scheduled to begin later this year.
The project, expected to be completed in early 2028, will provide about 70% of Honiara’s annual electricity demand through a 5MW hydropower station. Construction also includes a 71.5m-high dam, access roads, transmission lines, and a powerhouse located 5.4km downstream from the dam.
According to project officials, overall progress has reached 28%. The Tina River Hydro Project is being supported by the Solomon Islands Government, World Bank, Australian Government, Asian Development Bank, Korea-EXIM Economic Development Cooperation Fund, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and the Green Climate Fund.
