Ebeye, Kwajalein Atoll – MEC and KAJUR are pleased to announce significant progress on the KAJUR Fuel System Upgrade Project in Ebeye. This essential infrastructure project, which began in December 2024, represents a major investment in energy security for Ebeye residents.
The $870,723 project, awarded to contractor Gapcon, involves replacing decommissioned horizontal fuel tanks with two new 75,000-gallon capacity tanks and refurbishing the existing vertical tanks with new floors, roofs, and access systems. The comprehensive upgrade also includes new pipework and pumps to integrate all tanks into a unified fuel system.
The construction team has already completed demolition of the two existing horizontal tanks, with foundation work now underway. While awaiting crane availability to complete the next phase, contractors are removing existing footings and preparing to pour new foundations.
Once completed, the expanded storage capacity will dramatically reduce the frequency of fuel deliveries to KAJUR’s power plant – extending the current three-week delivery cycle to approximately 9-10 weeks. This operational improvement will free up MEC’s MERAM vessel for other essential services, including charters and deliveries to other neighboring islands, which have been challenging to schedule due to the frequent fuel runs to Ebeye.
MEC and KAJUR extend their sincere gratitude to the Kwajalein Atoll Development Authority (KADA) for providing the funding for this critical infrastructure project. “Without KADA’s financial support and vision for Ebeye’s development, this essential upgrade would not be possible,” said Joseph Pedro, the General Manager of KAJUR.
“Every improvement we make to our fuel infrastructure enhances energy security for our communities,” said MEC’s CEO. “Our partnership with KADA transforms infrastructure into real benefits—children can study without disruption, businesses can operate with confidence, and essential services remain powered. This is about building community resilience, not just metal tanks.”
KAJUR’s General Manager added, “MERAM has been our lifeline. Without this vessel’s regular fuel deliveries, Ebeye would continue to face inconsistent power supply and far more frequent outages. In the past, fuel shortages have forced us to ration power on the island, directly affecting homes, businesses, and critical services. With these expanded storage tanks, MERAM can serve us more efficiently while also accommodating the transportation needs of other islands. This vessel is a game-changer for energy stability across our communities.”
MEC’s MERAM Fuel Tanker Vessel
The KAJUR fuel storage tanks project is expected to be substantially complete by June 2025, with final commissioning anticipated later in the year.
Existing vertical fuel tanks in Ebeye’s power plant showing poor conditions.
Poor conditions of the tanks increase concerns on environment and supply security.
