New solar power systems available to Vanuatu households under the newly-launched Rural Electrification Project can be purchased at a subsidised rates.
The project, which is supported by the New Zealand aid programme and the World Bank, was launched last month and is set to provide access to solar power for 17,500 off-grid households.
New Zealand's High Commissioner in Vanuatu Georgina Roberts says the solar 'plug and play' systems will be available to many communities across the country.
"So as more vendors become willing to take on the products, then that will become more available but people can access the products also from a catalogue that is being produced. The project is being implemented in-country by the department of energy which is doing a great job and building awareness and getting the message out on these tools which are now available for local people to purchase at greatly subsidised rates."
There is little or no maintenance required for the project's solar system, the components of which are expected to have a lifespan of around 10 years.
