Will a new solar micro-grid change Vanuatu's future?

On the remote island of Malekula, a new solar micro-grid is changing the lives of over 2,800 people -- boosting local development while contributing to Vanuatu’s sector-specific target of transitioning to close to 100 percent renewable energy in the electricity sector by 2030.

Is solar a good idea for Vanuatu?

Antony Garae, Director of the Vanuatu Department of Energy, said this project is a great boon to his country, where 80 percent of rural residents lack electricity. “Solar is the best solution for these areas not only because of its obvious contributions to climate change mitigation but because fuel is costly and difficult to transport,” he said.

What is a Vanuatu solar PV system?

This project is aligned to the Government of Vanuatu’s National Energy Road Map for increasing the energy access for rural communities in Vanuatu. The installed solar PV system is a stand-alone 230/400 VAC 50Hz solar micro-grid combined with 48V batteries operating 24 hours and 7 days a week.

Will Vanuatu electrify most inhabited islands?

Access to reliable and sustainable electricity supply is a game-changer for remote communities, and the Government of Vanuatu is planning to embark on a comprehensive programme which will electrify most inhabited islands in Vanuatu through renewable energy. Click here for more information on our work in Vanuatu. Key points of the project:

Does Vanuatu have a Power Cooperative?

Throughout the first year of operation, the local energy service company will provide free maintenance and train members of the local communities to operate and maintain the power station. “This is the first-ever power cooperative for Vanuatu’s last mile communities.

What is Vanuatu's national energy road map?

Through its National Energy Road Map and in line with the goals of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, Vanuatu aims for 100 percent rural electrification and a total transition to renewable energy by 2030.