Internship agreement: NT program aims to give more power to Timor-Leste

A new Finocchiaro CLP Government program with Timor-Leste will help give more power to the neighbouring country.

A new energy internship exchange program with Timor-Leste

A new Finocchiaro CLP Government energy exchange internship program with Timor-Leste will help the neighbouring country’s efforts to deliver sustainable electricity to under-serviced regions.

The Empowerment Through Energy Program will see four Timorese energy professionals undertake a three-month internship with the Northern Territory Department of Mining and Energy from September 2025.

Participants will receive tailored program of training, policy engagement and practical field experience in delivering solar-diesel hybrid and power systems, drawing on the NT’s expertise in servicing some of the most isolated communities in Australia.

These learnings are intended to help Timor-Leste’s achieve its goal of expanding clean, reliable and optimised electricity access, particularly in remote regions.

Australia’s Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Caitlin Wilson, said the new initiative by the Northern Territory Government, with support from the Australian Government, will support a capability building priority requested by Timor-Leste, and is another step towards ensuring that reliable and sustainable energy can be delivered across Timor-Leste.

NT Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão .

Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, said the initiative strengthens regional partners to builds long-term capability.

“This program enables Timorese professionals to gain real-world skills in delivering secure, reliable energy,” said Ms Cahill.

Electricidade de Timor-Leste (EDTL) President, Dr Paulo da Silva, said having staff members participate in the program provides an opportunity for Timor-Leste officials to learn from the Northern Territory Government’s approaches to remote off-grid power solutions, including remote microgrids and stand-alone power systems.”

Minister for Mining and Energy and Minister for Renewables, Gerard Maley, said as part of our year of action, certainty and security, we’re proud to share our experience delivering affordable, reliable electricity to remote communities.

“The NT is Australia’s gateway to South-East Asia and an emerging energy powerhouse. Affordable energy is critical to improving living standards and economic growth, and this partnership is a big step forward,” he said.