The owner of New Energy Solution has confirmed that operations at the Stella Marie-based factory have officially ceased, despite ongoing public complaints about a strong, lingering odour in the area.

When VBTC News visited the site this week, no activity was observed at the premises. The shutdown follows a directive issued by the Department of Environment due to environmental concerns — specifically, the lack of a valid operating permit and reports of a chemical leak causing a persistent bad smell.

A Facebook post this morning renewed community concerns, saying the foul odour remained strong and continued to affect nearby residents, prompting the business owner to keep the factory closed another day.

Marie Eve Chabot, Managing Director of AJC Vanuatu and a nearby resident, described the smell as intense and unbearable.

“It’s a really strong smell — it’s everywhere in the air. Depending on the wind, it hits very strongly. It gives you a headache and a lump in your throat. We’ve reached out to the Environment Department and Shefa Province, but the problem seems to be ongoing,” she said.

In response to claims that some workers may still be operating inside the facility, the Shefa Provincial Government conducted an on-site inspection today and confirmed those allegations were false.

Speaking to VBTC News, owner of New Energy Solution , Jim Sheng, stated:

“That’s a false story. No Chinese engineers, no workers — the door is closed. Government officials have already visited and confirmed that. I just want to make it clear: the doors remain closed.”

The Department of Environment ordered the halt in operations after confirming the company had no official permit and was responsible for a leakage that resulted in a noxious odour around the Stella Marie community.