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Windy condition drives high level of renewable energy penetration

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Windy condition drives high level of renewable energy penetration

Last week, UNELCO experienced a high level of renewable energy penetration, with more than 30% of electricity generated from wind and solar power plants connected to the grid.

This strong performance was mainly due to exceptional wind conditions, which not only boosted wind generation but also helped cool photovoltaic systems, slightly improving their efficiency.

Between June 8 and June 13, renewable energy penetration exceeded 40% between 10 am and 3 pm, reaching a peak of nearly 50% around midday. Throughout this period, the level never fell below 18% over a full day. Wind generation remained stable, contributing between 18% and 28% of total production.

These conditions highlight the strong complementarity between wind and solar energy within UNELCO’s energy mix. Importantly, UNELCO has demonstrated that it can effectively manage the penetration of intermittent energy sources without causing blackouts which could have affected its customers.

This performance has reduced the use of diesel generation for the month, helping to mitigate the impact of fuel costs on UNELCO’s electricity tariff.

This achievement demonstrates UNELCO’s ongoing commitment to increasing renewable energy while maintaining a stable and reliable power supply for its customers on Efate.

Vanuatu Yet to Finalise MSG Prime Ministers Cup Squad

Adele Willie
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Vanuatu Yet to Finalise MSG Prime Ministers Cup Squad

The Vanuatu team that faced Fiji in an international friendly match last week is not the final squad that will represent the country at the 2026 MSG Prime Ministers Cup.

With the tournament now just three months away and Fiji preparing to host the 2026 edition, Vanuatu’s coaching staff say player selection remains open.

The friendly match was arranged following a request from Fiji Football and provided both teams with an opportunity to begin preparations for the regional competition.

Vanuatu Head Coach Lars Hopp said no final decisions have been made regarding the squad.

“The MSG Cup is three months away, so every time we meet it gives those invited a chance to prove themselves. For those who were not selected this time, the door remains open if they are ready to improve and work on themselves. This is definitely not the final selection, but it was a good week for me to get to know the players and for them to get to know us. We will continue working step by step.”

In a separate interview with VBTC Sports, Fiji’s Head Coach also acknowledged that there is still a long way to go before the tournament begins.

“It’s a long road ahead and we are going to remain focused on this process. Hopefully over the coming years we will continue building a strong team.”

As defending champions of the MSG Prime Ministers Cup, Vanuatu will face increased expectations heading into the 2026 tournament.

UNELCO Urges Residents to Conserve Water Amid Dry Season Concerns

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UNELCO Urges Residents to Conserve Water Amid Dry Season Concerns

As the main water supplier in Port Vila, UNELCO Engie is encouraging residents to conserve water as concerns grow over the impact of the dry season on water availability.

Speaking to VBTC News, UNELCO Engie General Manager Frederick Petit said while water is currently available, prolonged periods without rain could place pressure on water resources.

Mr Petit explained that Port Vila’s water supply comes from underground sources in the Tagabe area, and ensuring sufficient water depends not only on rainfall but also on responsible water use by consumers.

@vbtcnews

UNELCO has called on Port Vila residents to use water wisely as concerns grow over prolonged dry conditions and increasing water consumption. General Manager Frederick Petit says water conservation is everyone’s responsibility, urging customers to check for leaks, avoid wasting water, and report any pipe leaks to UNELCO.

♬ original sound – VBTC NEWS – VBTC NEWS

He urged customers to check for leaks on their properties, avoid excessive water consumption, and remember that water is a precious resource.

“I cannot say whether there will be enough water if we experience a long period without rain. However, there are ways to ensure water remains available. Customers must check that there are no leaks in their installations, avoid wasting water, and save water because water is precious and water is life,“ Mr Petit said.

He also called on members of the public to report any leaks they see on water pipelines.

According to Mr Petit, UNELCO is using advanced technologies to detect and repair leaks across its network as quickly as possible.

“We are deploying high-end techniques to detect leaks and fix them quickly because finding a leak without repairing it only creates bigger problems. I encourage the public to contact UNELCO or inform one of our technicians if they see a leak because it is in everyone’s interest to protect our water supply,” he said.

UNELCO says community cooperation will play a key role in ensuring water remains available for all residents during the dry season.

‘Tomorrow’s great leaders’: Vanuatu Youth Parliament 2026 Applications Now Open

Essen Jack
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‘Tomorrow’s great leaders’: Vanuatu Youth Parliament 2026 Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for Vanuatu Youth Parliament 2026, with the program scheduled to take place on 21 August.

The session provides young people from across the country an opportunity to develop leadership skills and discuss national issues.

Applications will close on 15 July. Organisers are encouraging young people from all provinces to apply to ensure broad national representation.

Before the session, selected participants will take part in a two-week training program designed to prepare them for parliamentary debates, legislative procedures, and leadership responsibilities.

Youth Parliament mirrors the national Parliament, with 52 youth members representing constituencies across the country. Participants will debate proposed bills and discuss national issues using the same procedures followed by Members of Parliament.

Launching the program on Tuesday, Speaker of Parliament Stephen Felix said the session would be themed as “Empowering Today’s Youth to Become Tomorrows Great Leaders”.

“This important national initiative will provide young people across Vanuatu with the opportunity to learn, to lead and raise the voices of their communities through democratic participation and parliamentary debate.”

Clerk of Parliament Maxime Banga said the initiative provides a valuable opportunity for young people to better understand how Parliament operates while developing important leadership and public speaking skills.

“The youth parliament will be set up like an actual real parliament and the youths will be designated as Speakers of parliament and ministers and they will go through matters that are in the chamber, with bills to be debated, question time, written statements.”

A crowd of attendees pose for a photo at the 2020 Vanuatu youth parliament
Attendees at the 2020 Vanuatu youth parliament (Facebook: UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji)

Chairperson of the Youth Parliament Steering Committee, Stephanie Mahit, said the program offers a unique opportunity for young people to become actively involved in democracy and governance.

Staff from Parliament, the United Nations Development Programme and the Vanuatu National Youth Council met in Port Vila today to finalise training arrangements for participants.

Youth Parliament 2026 will be the third session held in Vanuatu, following previous successful editions in 2013 and 2020.

Dengue cases increase to 12 in Shefa Province

Newsroom
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Dengue cases increase to 12 in Shefa Province

Dengue fever cases have increased to a total of 12 in Shefa province, particularly on Efate Island.

Shefa Health said cases have been confirmed in the councils of Pango (9 cases), Port Vila (2 cases) and Erakor (1 case). 8 of the cases are female and 4 are male.

Some of the cases had recently travelled to Fiji within 15 days before they started showing symptoms – a typical timeframe for dengue symptoms to appear.

The first confirmed case was report on April 8, 2026. So far no hospitalizations or deaths have been reported.

People are advised to seek early medical attention if dengue symptoms develop. They are recommended to take plenty of rest, drink lots of fluid and use paracetamol to manage fever.

Shefa Health advises not to use aspirin and ibuprofen unless recommended by a doctor. People should prevent mosquito bites and eliminate mosquito breeding sites around their homes.

Shefa Health said it would continue to monitor the situation closely.

What you need to know about Dengue fever

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted through Aedes mosquito bites. Symptoms usually develop 4-10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

Common symptoms

  • Fever
  • Severe headache
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Skin rash

Warning signs of severe dengue

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Bleeding from the nose or gums
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Extreme weakness or restlessness

Source: Shefa Health

Samson Garae Promoted to Assistant Commissioner South as 159 Officers Advance

Thompson Marango
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Samson Garae Promoted to Assistant Commissioner South as 159 Officers Advance

Samson Garae has been promoted to Assistant Commissioner South, the highest-ranking appointment announced during a major Vanuatu Police Force promotion exercise involving 159 officers.

The promotions mark a significant milestone in the implementation of the VPF’s 2026 organisational structure and efforts to strengthen leadership across the force.

Police Commissioner Kalshem Bongran said the promotions represent another important step in building a safe and resilient Vanuatu through a stronger and more effective police force.

@vbtcnews

Samson Garae has been promoted to Assistant Commissioner South, the highest-ranking appointment announced as part of a major Vanuatu Police Force promotion exercise involving 159 officers nationwide. The promotions are part of the VPF’s 2026 organisational structure and aim to strengthen leadership, fill key positions, and prepare the force for future challenges. Link in bio to read more.

♬ original sound – VBTC NEWS – VBTC NEWS

Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Napuat said the promotions are more than a recognition of service and form part of a long-term strategy to strengthen leadership within the organisation.

“Your promotion is not simply a ceremony or recognition. It is a crucial and strategic step in addressing leadership gaps that will emerge as part of the retirement plans we are already implementing. The Vanuatu Police Force must continue to stand strong and remain ready to face new challenges,” Minister Napuat said.

The 159 promoted officers come from all three elements of the Vanuatu Police Force and include more than 20 women officers.

The promotions cover officers based in Port Vila as well as those serving in provinces around the country.

Minister Napuat reminded the officers that their new ranks come with greater responsibilities.

“You have not only received a rank, but also the hope and trust of your colleagues and the communities you serve. Your leadership will influence the morale, discipline and effectiveness of the teams you lead. I ask you to carry this responsibility with pride, humility and a deep sense of duty and continue to uphold the Vanuatu Police Force Code of Ethics and Conduct at all times,” he said.

The Minister said the promotions are part of the force’s new organisational structure, which aims to formally fill positions that were previously occupied by acting officers.

“With these promotions, we now have officers who can be formally assigned to positions within the structure. This will make it easier for us to continue promoting officers into established positions and ensure officers receive proper recognition for the responsibilities they carry,” he said.

Minister Napuat also acknowledged the support of Vanuatu’s security partners, whose assistance has contributed to the development of the force.

Chairman of the Police Service Commission John Taleo, senior police officers, family members and invited guests attended the ceremony to witness the promotions.

Authorities Move to Tackle Shortage of Ni-Vanuatu Seafarers

Marie-Laure LUDVAUNE
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Authorities Move to Tackle Shortage of Ni-Vanuatu Seafarers

A shortage of qualified Ni-Vanuatu seafarers has prompted maritime authorities to strengthen training programmes and develop new pathways for young people to enter the maritime industry.

The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA), Vanuatu Maritime College (VMC) and other key stakeholders are also preparing to appoint a new Chief Executive Officer for the Maritime College to help drive reforms and support long-term workforce development.

Speaking to VBTC News, Acting Maritime Commissioner Hickson Siba said one of the key priorities is upgrading maritime training to meet international standards and increase the number of local seafarers working in the industry.

“VMSA, VMC and the Vanuatu Qualifications Authority are working together to upgrade the maritime college curriculum so it meets international seafarer training standards. With these upgrades, our seafarers will be able to meet the requirements to work on international vessels, domestic ships, and foreign vessels operating under the Vanuatu flag. At the moment, there are only a few Ni-Vanuatu working in the sector,” Mr Siba said.

He said the new CEO will play a critical role in implementing the long-term strategy aimed at strengthening local maritime training and increasing employment opportunities for Ni-Vanuatu seafarers.

Mr Siba added that VMSA has been working closely with the Maritime College to address workforce shortages and build a stronger maritime sector for the future.

“For many years, we depended on foreign scholarships for maritime training. Today, the Government is supporting scholarships that allow our seafarers to train in Vietnam. Some students are already studying there after leaving last year, and the programme is expected to continue,” he said.

“VMSA will continue advocating at the highest levels of Government to secure funding and encourage more young people to join the maritime industry and pursue careers at sea.”

Mr Siba said addressing the shortage of seafarers will require collaboration between VMSA, the Maritime College, government agencies and industry stakeholders.

He said building the capacity of local seafarers is essential to meeting the needs of the maritime industry and reducing reliance on foreign workers in the future.

The appointment of a new CEO for the Vanuatu Maritime College is expected to support these efforts and help guide the next phase of maritime training and workforce development in Vanuatu.

Police Report Progress as Port Vila Reset Operation Enters Phase 3

Newsroom
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Police Report Progress as Port Vila Reset Operation Enters Phase 3

The Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) says Operation Port Vila Reset 2026 has achieved significant results as the operation reaches its 33rd day and officially moves into Phase 3 of its 60-day strategy.

The operation, which began on 8 May, aims to restore public order, increase police visibility, reduce criminal activity, strengthen community confidence, and improve safety across Port Vila and surrounding communities.

According to the VPF, police officers from multiple divisions, including the Police District South, Vanuatu Mobile Force, Criminal Investigation Department, Traffic Division, Maritime Unit, Tactical Response Group, and other specialist units, have conducted extensive patrols, enforcement activities, intelligence operations, and community engagements throughout the capital.

Operational figures show that more than 670 patrol activities have been carried out since the operation began.

Police say the operation has led to greater visibility in identified hotspot areas, improved compliance among nightlife establishments, and stronger engagement with chiefs, churches, youth groups, and community leaders.

The operation has also resulted in more than 80 vehicles being detained or seized during traffic enforcement activities, while officers have recorded increased detection of traffic-related and alcohol-related offences.

Authorities report measurable reductions in public disorder incidents in several key locations, along with a noticeable decline in crowd disturbances, noise complaints, and alcohol-related incidents in areas that had previously generated significant concern.

The VPF says public confidence has also improved due to the sustained police presence across communities.

Despite the progress, police acknowledge that challenges remain, particularly in relation to youth offending, drug-related activities, public intoxication, anti-social behaviour, and other emerging criminal activities.

Several areas across Port Vila remain under close monitoring and will continue to receive targeted police deployments during the next phase of the operation.

The Commissioner of Police said the success of Operation Port Vila Reset reflects not only the efforts of police officers but also the cooperation and commitment of communities working together to improve safety and security.

The Vanuatu Police Force has thanked chiefs, church leaders, youth groups, community volunteers, business operators, government agencies, and members of the public for supporting the operation.

As Phase 3 begins, police are encouraging communities to continue reporting suspicious activities, support youth engagement initiatives, promote responsible behaviour, and work alongside law enforcement to address alcohol and drug-related issues.

The VPF says Phase 3 will focus on intelligence-led policing, hotspot patrols, youth intervention programs, traffic enforcement, and long-term community stabilisation measures aimed at maintaining the gains achieved during the first 33 days of the operation.

Police say they remain committed to ensuring Port Vila remains safe, secure, and welcoming for all residents and visitors.

17 Resolutions to Shape Port Vila’s Next Four-Year Development Plan

Essen Jack
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17 Resolutions to Shape Port Vila’s Next Four-Year Development Plan

Seventeen resolutions have been adopted following the Port Vila City People’s Forum, where representatives from the municipality’s five wards came together to discuss community priorities and development needs.

The forum brought together chiefs, youth representatives, women, churches, businesses and people living with disabilities to share their views on what should be included in the new Port Vila City Council Strategic Plan for the next four years.

During the discussions, participants raised a range of issues affecting their communities and identified priority areas they believe the council should address.

The discussions resulted in 17 resolutions that will help guide efforts to tackle challenges and meet the needs of communities across the municipality.

Acting Clerk of the Port Vila City Council, Ettienne Ravo, said the resolutions will play a central role in developing the council’s new strategic roadmap.

“The next stage is for us to return to the communities and wards to discuss these resolutions with residents. They will identify the activities they want implemented under each resolution, and from there we will compile the information into a Strategic Plan for the next three to four years,” Mr Ravo said.

“We will then take the document back to the people for their feedback and final input. Once communities agree with the plan, it will be consolidated and presented as the new roadmap for Port Vila from 2026 to 2030.”

Mr Ravo said the resolutions will now be taken back to the wards for further consultation to ensure the final Strategic Plan reflects the needs and aspirations of Port Vila residents.

He described the forum as an important step in giving communities a stronger voice in shaping the future direction of the municipality.

Chairman of the Anamburu Ward Council of Chiefs, Chief Alick Valeros, welcomed the initiative, saying it was important for council plans to reflect the interests of people living across all five wards.

“This is a very good forum because over the years we have never had an opportunity like this where representatives from all wards can come together to raise issues and concerns affecting their communities in Port Vila,” Chief Valeros said.

Participants at the forum stressed that future council projects and policies should be driven by community priorities and ensure that development benefits all residents of the municipality.

The 17 resolutions will now serve as a foundation for the Port Vila City Council as it prepares its new Strategic Plan, which is expected to guide the municipality’s development over the next four years.

Rough Seas Up to 3.5 Metres Prompt Nationwide Marine Warning

Tiffany Baldwin
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Rough Seas Up to 3.5 Metres Prompt Nationwide Marine Warning

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department is warning coastal communities, fishermen and sea travellers to exercise caution as strong southeast winds continue to generate rough sea conditions across the country.

The marine warning remains in effect for all coastal waters of Vanuatu, with forecasters expecting hazardous conditions to continue through the weekend before gradually improving early next week.

According to the department, the weather system is being driven by a strong high-pressure system located south of New Zealand, which is creating active southeast winds over Vanuatu.

Meteorological Officer Ellen Luke said the high-pressure system is producing strong pressure gradients across the region, resulting in increased wind speeds.

“This high-pressure system is creating strong pressure lines across the islands of Vanuatu. At the moment, several pressure lines are affecting the country and this is causing wind speeds to increase,” Ms Luke said.

Forecasters are warning that southeast winds of between 21 and 25 knots are generating rough seas, with wave heights reaching up to 2.5 metres.

Ms Luke said conditions could worsen in some areas over the next few days.

“Today, tomorrow and into Saturday morning, some areas may experience stronger winds of up to 30 knots as weather systems move through. This could result in wave heights increasing to between 3 and 3.5 metres,” she said.

The rough sea conditions have already affected maritime transport, with several shipping operators issuing notices of service disruptions and cancellations for the coming week.

Meanwhile, the department is also monitoring a low-pressure system developing north of Vanuatu.

Ms Luke said the system may bring showers to northern parts of the country but is not expected to develop into a tropical cyclone.

“We may see some showers in the north, but as the trough moves eastward and towards the north of Fiji, conditions should improve again. There is currently no threat of cyclone development as Vanuatu is now outside the cyclone season,” she said.

The department is urging people living in coastal communities, fishermen, and anyone planning sea travel to closely follow official weather advisories and take all necessary safety precautions while the marine warning remains in place.

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department says it will continue monitoring conditions and provide updates should the situation change.

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