Energy Reliability: Tonga Power Limited apologised after a major generator failure on Tongatapu triggered rotational outages; repairs are expected to take about two weeks, with two new generator units being installed as Tonga pushes its shift from diesel toward renewables. Fuel Security & Costs: A new USTDA-funded feasibility study for Tonga’s main fuel supplier will assess bigger fuel tankers, expand storage from 15–20 days to about 60, and improve distribution to outer islands—aimed at cutting transshipment costs and protecting consumers from global supply shocks. Inflation Pressure: Tonga’s July inflation climbed to 9.3%, driven by transport (+23.3%) and big jumps in housing, water, electricity and gas (+32.2%), keeping household costs under strain. Construction & Skills: Students at the University of the South Pacific got an update on the new Tonga Parliament complex at Mataki’eua, with completion targeted for early 2028 and Lapita pottery plus human remains discovered; the project is also creating apprenticeship placements for TNU trainees. Governance & Delivery Risks: The Fangaʻuta Lagoon Bridge project faces further delays and possible cost blowouts due to contract obligations, project management weaknesses, and unresolved land issues. Mining Governance (Regional): A workshop in Solomon Islands highlighted women’s roles in transparency and accountability in mining communities, including stronger participation in EITI processes. Global Fuel Shock Watch: Trump’s Iran demands and Strait of Hormuz shipping concerns could lift fuel and freight costs that Tonga imports depend on.