Takara Geothermal exploration reaches final phase with Groundlink Energy

April 16, 2025 9:56 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Matthew Kensen.

The development of geothermal energy in Vanuatu has taken a major step forward as Groundlink Energy Pty Ltd, an Australia-based company, has successfully entered the final phase of its geothermal exploration activities in Takara, North Efate.

This achievement marks a noteworthy landmark under the Geothermal Act No. 40 of 2019, as Groundlink becomes the third overseas company to meet the full regulatory requirements for a geothermal exploration licence in Vanuatu. The project is being closely monitored by the Geology and Mines Unit under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

According to Mr. Benjamin Titus, Licensing and Tenement Registrar at the Geology and Mines Unit, the licensing process for Groundlink Energy was rigorous and thorough. “The company underwent extensive vetting, including checks by the Vanuatu Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC), to ensure they were a genuine entity with both the technical and financial capacity to carry out the exploration works within the life of the license,” Mr. Titus said.

The Licensing and Tenement Registrar also confirmed that the Geology and Mines Unit conducted community consultations with surrounding villages in North Efate. 

“The communities responded positively to the exploration work, which is critical to ensuring a successful and inclusive process,” he added.

The exploration licence granted to Groundlink Energy falls under the oversight of the Geothermal Exploration Advisory Board, a key body established under the Geothermal Act to guide and regulate geothermal developments in the country. The legislation sets high standards for performance, environmental management, and local engagement.

Groundlink Energy Co-founder Mr. Tim Horneman conveyed his appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to Vanuatu’s clean energy future. 

“Groundlink Energy is honoured to be working with the Government and the people of Vanuatu to undertake exploration activities across the licence area in North Efate,” he said. “This licence is an important step in the journey toward the future construction and operation of a geothermal power plant to deliver lower-cost, lower-emissions electricity to Vanuatu. With connectivity to the grid possible through existing transmission infrastructure, the project is well placed to make a contribution to the economy of Vanuatu.”

Currently, the project is transitioning into its drilling phase, which will determine the geothermal resource’s capacity for sustainable electricity generation. If proven viable, this development could lead to the construction of Vanuatu’s first large-scale geothermal power plant.

Mr. Titus emphasised that the Geology and Mines Unit, through the Geothermal Exploration Advisory Board, will continue to monitor the project closely. “Our role is to ensure that Vanuatu’s geothermal resources are developed in a manner that is sustainable, transparent, and beneficial to all stakeholders,” he said.

The progress at the Takara site is an example of what can be achieved when government regulators, communities, and private sector partners collaborate toward a shared vision of clean energy and sustainable development.