Sponsor: Foothill Section Chapter, C16
Foothill Section Chapter, PE31
Orange County Section Jt. Chapter, PE31/IA34
Charlotte Section Chapter, PE31
Speaker: Ms. Sadarina Lesa of Electric Power Corporation Samoa

Date: 10 Jun 2026
Time: 03:00 PM PDT to 04:00 PM PDT
Cost:
Location:
Reservations: IEEE
Summary:This webinar provides an overview of the evolving power system in Samoa as the country increases its integration of renewable energy resources. The presentation introduces the structure of the national grid operated by Electric Power Corporation Samoa and highlights recent operational challenges, including generation constraints, grid reliability, and the current energy situation. Particular attention is given to the technical challenges of operating a small island power system with high renewable penetration. Key lessons learned and potential strategies for maintaining reliable system operation during this transition are also discussed.

Bio: Ms. Sadarina Lesa is a Graduate Engineer at the Electric Power Corporation in Samoa, where she has been working since 2021 on power system operations and development. She previously gained hands-on experience through multiple electrical engineering internships with the same utility, building a strong foundation in practical power engineering within a real-world grid environment.

Sara holds a Master’s degree in Engineering Project Management (First Class Honours) and a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Auckland University of Technology. Her background combines technical expertise in electrical power systems with project management skills, and her work focuses on enhancing the reliability and performance of power systems.