The Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, spoke at a notable side event titled “Efficient Water Management and Offshore Renewables – A Green Opportunity for Island Blue Economies” during COP29 in Azerbaijan. The gathering of international leaders and experts highlighted the critical need for sustainable practices in island nations as they tackle climate change.
During his address, Tuisawau discussed Fiji’s active measures to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy, noting that 55% of the country’s electricity currently comes from renewable sources, predominantly hydropower. The government’s ambitious goal is to surpass 90% renewable energy by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Fiji’s National Energy Policy aligns with this vision, focusing on sustainable, affordable, and dependable energy solutions that enhance energy security while supporting a clean energy transition for all Fijians. Among the innovative initiatives under consideration is the implementation of floating solar installations on hydropower dams, aimed at conserving water resources and boosting energy output.
Tuisawau also stressed the necessity of global collaboration in achieving these targets, referencing Fiji’s role in the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative, which has already surpassed its renewable energy objectives for 2020 and 2023.
In conclusion, he reiterated Fiji’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and climate action, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to build a resilient future for island nations and the broader global community.
This event serves as a reminder of the potential for positive change through commitment and cooperation. Such initiatives not only address immediate energy needs but also set a precedent for other nations, illustrating how innovation and sustainability can pave the way for a more prosperous future for all.
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