Union Electrique Du Vanuatu Limited (UNELCO) plans to build an innovative 3 MWp solar PV plant, with an estimated investment of VT 300 million. The project is set to be financed through the Port Vila Concession tariff for the 2020-2025 period.
Solar Farm to Generate Over 4.2 Million kWh Annually
This ambitious project will be situated on the Kawene plateau in Efate, alongside the existing wind farm and solar facility, establishing it as the country’s largest solar farm.
Scheduled for commissioning by mid-2025, the new solar farm is projected to produce over 4.2 million kWh of renewable electricity annually for Efate’s residents. This will boost the island’s overall renewable energy capacity by an impressive 38%.
Solar Project to Cut Emissions by 2,500 Tons and Reduce Tariffs
The project is expected to eliminate the need for over 1 million litres of imported fossil fuel each year. This significant reduction will cut carbon emissions by 2,500 tons annually and improve electricity affordability for local consumers, who can anticipate an approximately 2% reduction in the Port Vila tariff.
This initiative stems from a long-term public-private partnership between the Ministry of Climate Change Adaptation (MoCCA), represented by Minister Ralph Regenvanu, and UNELCO, the concessionaire financing the project. It underscores the Vanuatu government’s commitment to decarbonising its electricity supply and aligning with international climate change goals.
Future Solar Projects to Include Energy Storage Solutions
This solar farm is the final direct-to-grid PV installation that can operate without a battery, as future projects will require integrated energy storage solutions. Following this milestone, the upcoming Renewable Energy Solar and Storage on Efate and Tanna (RESSET) project will add 5 MWp of PV plant generation, complemented by a 6.75 MWh stabilizing and energy storage battery.
UNELCO: Powering Vanuatu with Sustainable Energy Solutions
As the primary electricity utility for the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, Union Electrique du Vanuatu Limited (UNELCO) plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining the country’s electricity infrastructure. The company operates a diverse range of power generation facilities, including diesel generators and renewable energy sources.
The company has been steadily integrating renewable energy technologies like solar and wind power into its energy mix. This strategic approach enhances sustainability and strengthens the transmission and distribution of electricity across Vanuatu, fortifying the grid and ensuring a reliable supply for households, businesses, and public institutions.
UNELCO also engages with the community to promote awareness of sustainable energy practices. The company plans to continue expanding its renewable energy capacity, enhancing grid reliability, and supporting Vanuatu’s sustainable development goals. These efforts aim to play a key role in the nation’s transition to a more resilient energy system and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change.
