The Government of Vanuatu has signed a Concession Deed yesterday with the Vanuatu Utilities Infrastructure Limited (VUI) for the supply of electricity to certain parts of the islands of Santo, Maewo, Vanua Lava and Ambae.  The Government represented by the Prime Minister, Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas and the Minister of Climate Change Adaption, Meteorology, Geo-hazards, Energy, Environment and National Disaster, Ham Lini Vanuroroa, will act as the Grantor whereas the CEO of VUI of Luganville, Espiritu Santo, Peter Allen as the Concessionaire. 

The Concession Deed will ensure the generation, transmission, distribution and supply electricity be made serviceable in certain parts of the islands of Santo, Maewo, Vanua Lava and Ambae. PM Salwai said during his address that this accomplishment is a great component towards the development of the country. “Where Electricity should be made affordable and accessible within other islands in Vanuatu.” He added that the primary focus should be fixated on the biggest island of Vanuatu, that is Espiritu, Santo. “In order to attract and promote industries to invest in Santo which can also boost tourism growth.” The Prime Minister highlighted that the emphasis of this agreement is to improve and expand development within all six provinces.

VUI CEO Allen pledged his undying support to the Prime Minister, the Minister of Climate Change, to Luganville and the whole of Vanuatu to work together and accomplish the targets set out in the Government of Vanuatu’s National Energy Road Map. The CEO promised to take guidance from the Government and continue to work as partners in supplying electrical energy necessary to power the facilities indicated in the specific terms according to the conditions of the agreement. The Government of Vanuatu also wishes to acknowledge the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of Australia through its Governance for Growth (GFG) in country program, for its unwavering financial support towards the retender processes of the Luganville electricity concession.