Samoa: Power crisis under control
On 31 March, Prime Minister Naomi Mataafa Fiame declared a 30-day state of emergency (SOE) over the ongoing power crisis due to the break down of generators causing an island wide power outage. The SOE extends to 29 April 2025 and is intended to allow the government to implement measures to manage and restore power, and maintain essential services. PM Fiame stated the crisis was caused by a combination of faults in the country’s main underground power cable, severe weather causing damage to power lines and poles, and the failure of backup generators. PM Fiame acknowledged the impact on homes, schools, private businesses and corporations, stating that the economic impact is estimated to cost up to 16% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), approximately $400 million. Subsequently, the Electric Power Corporation took delivery of five rented electricity generators from a New Zealand company as a temporary measure to boost electricity supply and reduce power rationing on Upolou, the country’s main island.
Assessment: The government effectively dealt with the power crisis through public engagement and swift replacement of generators. No reports of protests or lawsuits for losses have been recorded, demonstrating stability amidst ongoing domestic political tensions. Permanent replacement generators purchased from China are expected in August 2025 after the lease expires on the temporary generators from New Zealand.
Sources: Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai, “Samoa declares state of emergency amid severe power crisis,” ABC Pacific, March 31, 2025; Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong, “Energy crisis puts $400M economic dent,” Samoa Observer, March 31, 2025; Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong, “Rented generators could end power ration,” Samoa Observer, April 7, 2025; Susana Suisuiki, “Samoa power crisis: Hope arrives in the form of leased generators from NZ,” RNZ, April 9, 2025.
