Marshall Islands President Heine signs executive order to fix energy issues

1:11 pm on 26 January 2024
Marshalls Energy Company faces "critical challenges" in delivering reliable power.

Marshalls Energy Company faces "critical challenges" in delivering reliable power. Photo: Facebook / Marshalls Energy Company

The Marshall Islands has declared a state of emergency for its energy company - Marshalls Energy Company- which it says faces "critical challenges" in delivering reliable power.

President Hilda Heine signed an executive order on Thursday, which states the state of emergency had to be declared due to aging power plants and generators, resulting in frequent and extended power cuts.

It said the continuous disruptions pose a severe threat to the wellbeing of the community on Majuro, affecting crucial sectors including healthcare.

The emergency order states immediate action and government support are deemed imperative, and Cabinet will allocate emergency funding to the company.

Regulations are also being waived to make it easier for the Energy Company to get goods and technical experts.