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

The Port Vila City Council (PVCC) has received a donation of 1.1 million Vatu from the National Green Energy Fund (NGEF) to support the installation of 12 solar streetlights, aimed at enhancing community safety and promoting economic activity.

As part of the plan, eight solar streetlights will be installed in Saralana, and four will be installed at the waterfront market. The initial installation will be carried out by eTech Vanuatu Ltd, with the remaining 11 units to be installed by PVCC staff.

The project was initiated by PVCC with an application to NGEF, seeking to support local vendors, particularly the "mothers" (female vendors) affected by the recent magnitude 7.3 earthquake. The NGEF Board approved the request as part of a post-disaster recovery fund, aiming to maintain sustainable energy projects.

PVCC Mayor Jenny Tasale Regenvanu expressed gratitude for NGEF's swift response and emphasized the role of solar streetlights in supporting local vendors, improving safety, and boosting after-hours economic activity. "This initiative provides much-needed lighting, fostering business opportunities, and ensuring a safer environment for our community," the Mayor stated.

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