Apr 23, 2025
300 kW project to provide clean energy for the island of Tanna
VANPAWA SIGNS 18 YEARS POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH MANA PACIFIC TO BOOST RENEWABLE ENERGY USE IN TANNA ELECTRICIY GRID
The Vanuatu National Power and Water Authority (VANPAWA), a subsidiary of VNPF, has partnered with Mana Pacific in completing the process and paperwork for establishing an 18 years power purchasing agreement (PPA)for supply of electricity in Tanna, generated by a 300kW solar PV system. Mana Pacific, an independent power producer (IPP), will develop, design, construct, own, operate and maintain the Solar Facility, and is currently planned to be operational in the first quarter of 2026. The partnership agreement was signed on April 23, 2025, at the Holiday Inn Resort in Port Vila.
Mana Pacific is a social impact organisation that focuses on designing, developing, financing, and de-risking scalable resilience projects across Hawaii and 22 other Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs). Their mission is to deliver resilient renewable energy solutions that reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, minimize environmental impact, and improve access to sustainable and affordable energy. This project represents a significant milestone in Vanuatu's energy landscape, akin to planting seeds that will grow into a flourishing trees in the future. The primary goal of this sustainable power producing initiative is to produce energy at a lower cost compare to fuel cost, making electricity more affordable .
VANPAWA operates the Tanna and Malekula electricity services under a 20 years concession agreement with the Vanuatu Government. Electricity supply in Tanna is generated by diesel generators, hence, this renewable energy project aims to deliver clean energy at a price lower than diesel fuel for its customers.
The Director of Energy also acknowledges the partnership: “Thank you, VANPAWA and Mana Pacific, for this opportunity to collaborate on a renewable energy project that will enhance the supply of sustainable electricity at a lower cost than diesel fuel,” stated Mr. Anthony L. Garae. He further commented on the changes in the Electricity Supply Act that enables independent power producers (IPPs) to operate in Vanuatu. This renewable energy project will commence on the island of Tanna and is expected to encourage further engagement among IPPs, in renewable energy initiatives moving forward.
Congratulations VANPAWA and Mana Pacific on achieving this milestone!