Proud to have graduated with a Master of Science in Physics from the University of The South Pacific on 10^th April, 2025.

My research topic “Biomass Power Generation Prospects for Nasarowaqa-Nabouwalu Grid Connected Supply on Vanua Levu”

Thesis link: https://librarycat.usp.ac.fj/client/en_GB/search/asset/7181/0

From Equations to Energy: Exploring Biomass Potential in Fiji

I chose to explore biomass power generation because of its potential to provide sustainable, local energy in rural Fiji. The Nasarowaqa–Nabouwalu grid serves a vital area of Vanua Levu, and I saw an opportunity to combine physics with real, impactful change. My goal was to assess whether biomass could be a reliable and renewable power source for this grid.

Growing up in Fiji, I’ve seen the energy challenges faced by rural communities firsthand. Vanua Levu, the second-largest island in the country, holds vast potential — not just in natural beauty but in renewable energy resources. The Nasarowaqa–Nabouwalu grid serves a significant portion of the island, and I saw an opportunity. Could locally source biomass reduce fossil fuel dependency and offer a more sustainable path forward?

Fieldwork and data collection were time consuming as well as challenging. Accessing accurate data on local biomass, availability to forest residues — required patience, collaboration with local farmers, and outreach to government agencies. There were lots of setbacks, especially when early modelling attempts didn’t yield consistent results. But every challenge taught me something valuable: perseverance, flexibility, and the importance of community engagement.

Eventually, my simulations and feasibility assessments began to paint a promising picture. Biomass, when properly harnessed, could provide a stable and cleaner energy source for the region — potentially offsetting a significant portion of the grid’s fossil fuel reliance. This wasn’t just a physics exercise anymore. It was a vision for sustainable energy, shaped by equations but powered by purpose for the future of Fiji.

Looking back, this journey transformed me by gaining technical skills in energy modelling and sustainability analysis, yes — but more importantly, I learned to connect science with social impact. I discovered that physics doesn’t just belong in textbooks or labs; it belongs in villages, in policy rooms and in the heartbeat of communities striving for progress towards brighter future.

Today, I carry forward this mission. Whether I pursue further research or work in renewable energy planning, I remain committed to solutions that are both scientifically sound and socially rooted. My master’s journey taught me that real change starts when knowledge meets compassion — and when energy isn’t just about power, but about empowering people.

The Research Ride

Let me tell you — researching renewable energy in a real-world context is way more intense (and exciting) than it sounds. It’s not just about crunching numbers or building models. It’s about understanding how people live, how systems work, and how physics can actually fit into all of these.

I spent months gathering data, analyzing biomass availability, modelling generation capacity, and simulating what a biomass-powered grid could look like for the Narsarowaqa Nabouwalu corridor. And yes — I hit some walls.

Access to reliable data was tough. Modelling energy flowing under different scenarios took time (and a lot of troubleshooting), but slowly, the pieces came together. My research showed that with the right infrastructure, biomass could supply a meaningful portion of the region’s electricity supply.

More Than Science

The biggest thing I learned was that this work isn’t just about energy; it’s about people, communities who deserve reliable power, reducing environmental impact in the places we call home and about using what we have, locally and wisely.

Sure, I came out with better research and modelling skills, but I also came out with a deeper understanding of what it means to do science that matters. Physics gave me the tools — but it’s purpose and the people that gave me the direction.

Acknowledgement

I would like to thank my family for their support and encouragement throughout this journey. To my supervisors — thank you for your invaluable guidance, support, and mentorship that helped shape both my research and my growth. I’m also deeply grateful to the University of the South Pacific for providing the resources and environment that made this milestone possible.