Port-Vila, Vanuatu – Thursday, 20 November 2025: The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) has achieved a major milestone in its long-term infrastructure development plan with the successful installation and commissioning of a new high-capacity electrical step-up transformer. Installed by Unelco, the transformer significantly strengthens the university’s power security at a time of growing enrolment, expanding facilities, and increasing energy demand.
NUV launched the procurement process for the new transformer in January 2022 after the existing local grid reached saturation and could no longer provide sufficient power for the university’s needs. The acquisition of a modern, high-capacity unit became essential to reinforce and stabilise the campus electrical network and ensure a reliable, scalable supply capable of supporting both current operations and future development.
While the project was originally estimated at VT 11 million, several external disruptions contributed to delays and increased costs. COVID-19-related factory shutdowns in Europe halted transformer fabrication during the pandemic, while global logistics constraints further affected delivery timelines. Most recently, the earthquake disrupted shipment and scheduling, adding another layer of complexity to the process. Despite these challenges, preparatory works advanced steadily over the past several months and ultimately enabled the transformer’s full installation and commissioning.
With the unit now operational, NUV is turning its attention to the next phase of the project. This will involve connecting the transformer to all existing campus buildings and extending the electrical distribution network to support new facilities planned under the university’s broader development program. These steps will be critical to preparing the university for its next stage of growth.
Vice-Chancellor Jean-Pierre Nirua highlighted the importance of this achievement for NUV’s future. He said, “The commissioning of this transformer marks an important step forward for the National University of Vanuatu. As we continue to expand our academic programs and facilities, a reliable and scalable power supply is essential. This investment not only strengthens the resilience of our existing campus operations but also ensures we are well-prepared to support the growth and development that lie ahead. It is a clear demonstration of our commitment to building a modern, future-ready national university for Vanuatu.”
The completion of this project represents a significant step in strengthening NUV’s infrastructure base and ensuring the campus is equipped to meet both present and future electrical demands as the university continues to grow.
