Port Vila City Council to expand solar lighting with NGEF’s VT1.1 million donation

February 18, 2025 12:02 am | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

The Port Vila City Council (PVCC) has received a donation of VT1.1 million from the National Green Energy Fund (NGEF) to support the installation of 12 solar-powered streetlights, aimed at increasing safety and boosting economic activity in the community.

As part of this initiative, eight solar streetlights will be installed at Saralana, and four at Seaside Market. The first installation will be handled by eTech Vanuatu Ltd, while the remaining eleven units will be installed by PVCC staff.

The project was initiated by a request from the PVCC to the NGEF to support local vendors, particularly “mamas” (women vendors), who were impacted by the recent 7.3 magnitude earthquake. The NGEF board endorsed the request as part of the disaster recovery fund, aiming to maintain sustainable energy projects.

PVCC Mayor Jenny Tasale Regenvanu thanked NGEF for its swift response, emphasising the role of the solar streetlights in supporting local vendors, improving safety, and enabling after-hours economic activities. “This initiative provides much-needed lighting, promotes business opportunities, and ensures a safer environment for our community,” the Mayor said.

The PVCC sees this project as an important step toward sustainable urban development, strengthening its partnership with NGEF and advancing renewable energy solutions for Port Vila.