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.

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.

What is the Vanuatu micro-grid?

Photo: Ian Iercet Launched in September in the communities of Wintua and Lorlow, the micro-grid is Vanuatu’s first-ever community-run power system: members of the communities own and manage it.

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.

How can a micro-grid power station be sustainable?

A well-structured maintenance plan, based on community capacity building by the local energy service company, will ensure the sustainability of the micro-grid power station. This project is aligned to the Government of Vanuatu’s National Energy Road Map for increasing the energy access for rural communities in Vanuatu.