Dr. Sivendra Michael, Fiji’s Chief Negotiator at COP29 and Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, emphasized the vast potential for solar and hydropower investments in Fiji. However, he pointed out that the country’s ongoing national circumstances inhibit growth in the adoption of these clean energy technologies. He made these remarks during a round-table discussion organized by UNDP, focusing on accelerating the Just Energy Transition for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at COP29 held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Dr. Michael highlighted that Pacific Island countries collectively contribute only about 0.03% of global emissions. Nevertheless, these nations are committed to leading by example through ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aligned with the goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. He urged that the success of these efforts hinges on substantial commitments from the world’s largest economies, as well as clear market signals that could stimulate technology transfer and significant reductions in carbon emissions.
The Chief Negotiator underscored the need for long-term planning to achieve net-zero emissions and avert climate chaos, rather than relying on short-term goals. He also indicated that policymakers can drive progress by fostering the necessary investments, support, and partnerships for sustainable low-carbon growth.
Fiji is firmly committed to its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with this objective enshrined in its Climate Change Act. The national NDC aims for 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030. However, to reach these targets, Fiji must secure the required resources and partnerships to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
Fiji’s NDC Implementation Roadmap estimates a need for approximately USD 2.97 billion in investment in the energy sector from 2017 to 2030 to achieve a 30% reduction in energy sector emissions. The investment plan outlines 20 primary mitigation programs for transportation and energy efficiency, with an estimated financing requirement of about USD 2 billion between 2022 and 2030.
Dr. Michael stressed that progress in Fiji and the broader Pacific region is contingent upon action from major emitting countries. He asserted the importance of a coordinated global approach to decarbonization, emphasizing that a fair transition requires sincere commitments from all parties involved to mitigate global temperature rise effectively.
During the side event organized by AOSIS and UNDP, the discussion highlighted the potential benefits of the just energy transition for SIDS. UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner pointed out the dual importance of clean, reliable renewable energy systems for both resilience and economic transformation, while also addressing the challenges these transitions pose for sectors such as tourism.
Ultimately, Dr. Michael’s statements call for collective action to ensure that Small Island Developing States like Fiji can succeed in their energy transition efforts, while outlining the critical steps needed to align their goals with global climate initiatives.
This discussion underlines a hopeful vision where through collaboration, investments, and smart policies, SIDS can not only combat climate change but emerge stronger and more resilient in a sustainable future.
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