Powering Change in Torba

As part of our year long program of climate adaptation work in Vanuatu, we have this week proudly handed over the new 15kW off-grid solar system at Quatvaes Hospital – the main provincial hospital in Torba, serving over 11,000 people in one of the most remote areas of Vanuatu.

Quatvaes has gone without reliable power for years, limiting critical services – including basic lighting, sterilisation, and emergency care. This breakthrough changes everything.

With support from our technical partners at Elemental Group Limited, our HELPR-1 Climate Adaptation Program team has completed two off-grid solar installations in Torba Province – and this one is powering life-saving improvements:

• Critical medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators are now operational for life saving interventions.
• The installation of a new X-ray machine (procured by Respond Global with support from REnew Pacific).
• Using Starlink internet to access telemedicine and remote clinical support.

Waven Aranhabat, Provincial Health Planner stated, “This milestone marks a profound transformation for both hospital staff and patients, ensuring better healthcare services, improved working conditions, and enhanced medical care.”

This is a big step forward for healthcare in Torba and a clear example of how practical climate solutions can improve essential services in hard-to-reach places.

A huge thank you to our partners – Elemental, ReNew Pacific, and the Australian High Commission, Vanuatu – and to the Torba Provincial Government and the HELPR-1 team who worked tirelessly to make this happen.