Vanuatu New Energy Solar Air Conditioning

With this project, 17,000 households throughout Vanuatu will be supported to access non grid, renewable electricity through solar. With low population densities and large distances between communities, a key challenge for the project has been providing access to electricity in a way that is cost effective and efficient.

The New Zealand Government is increasing its support for Vanuatu's climate and energy priorities through a major investment in the Renewable Energy Solar and Storage on Efate and Tanna (RESSET) project. This initiative responds directly to Vanuatu's national climate goals and energy needs by improving access to clean and reliable electricity.

The two-year project, led by the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), will bring solar-powered water pumping systems to eight rural communities across Vanuatu's Santo, Paama, Tanna and Malekula islands, improving water security and sanitation for over 4,700 people.

Vanuatu currently has one of the lowest electricity access rates in the world. Under the RESSET project, New Zealand will serve as the lead donor, providing the majority of funding for the installation of solar arrays and battery storage systems on Efate, near Port Vila, and the island of Tanna.

This initiative responds directly to Vanuatu's national climate goals and energy needs by improving access to clean and reliable electricity. Vanuatu currently has one of the lowest electricity access rates in the world.

An additional REnew Pacific project will benefit around 80,000 people in Vanuatu's most remote communities, delivering reliable 24/7 energy to healthcare services for the first time.