Dr. Sivendra Michael, Fiji’s Chief Negotiator at COP29 and Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, emphasized the significant opportunities that solar and hydropower investments present for Fiji. However, he noted that the nation’s specific circumstances are hindering the rapid deployment of these clean energy technologies.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion organized by the UNDP on accelerating the Just Energy Transition in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Dr. Michael pointed out that Pacific Island countries collectively contribute approximately 0.03 percent of global emissions. Despite their minimal impact, these nations are committed to ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aligned with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. He underscored the need for stronger commitments from the world’s largest economies and clear market signals to facilitate technology transfer and significant reductions in carbon emissions.
Dr. Michael highlighted the necessity of long-term planning to achieve net-zero emissions and mitigate climate change, rather than relying on short-term goals. He urged governments to reshape investments and mindsets through incentives, capacity-building efforts, and partnerships, which are essential for sustainable low-carbon growth.
Fiji is working towards a net-zero target by 2050, a goal mandated by the Climate Change Act. The country’s current NDC aims for 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030, but this transition requires adequate resources and collaborations to lessen its dependency on fossil fuels. According to the NDC Implementation Roadmap from 2017, $2.97 billion is needed to reduce emissions in the energy sector by 30% by 2030. Furthermore, the NDC Investment Plan has identified 20 key mitigation programs across energy and transportation, estimating a total need of around $2 billion in financing from 2022 to 2030.
Dr. Michael reiterated that SIDS like Fiji cannot succeed in their energy transition without the prompt actions of major global emitters. He advocated for a collaborative global approach to decarbonization, emphasizing that without collective efforts, the goals of justice and transition cannot be achieved.
The side event, organized by AOSIS and UNDP, also stressed the opportunities for SIDS in transitioning to clean energy. UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner mentioned that the shift towards clean, reliable, and affordable renewable energy is essential for resilience and can drive economic transformation and new growth sectors. He acknowledged the challenges faced by SIDS in transitioning to electric mobility, highlighting the need for necessary infrastructure to support this change.
The positive angle in this narrative is the strong commitment from Fiji and other small island nations to lead by example in tackling climate change, illustrating resilience and innovation in the face of global challenges.
In summary, Dr. Michael’s insights underscore the critical need for global solidarity and proactive measures from major economies to support the energy transition in small island nations like Fiji. With the right investments and international cooperation, there lies tremendous potential for sustainable development and a cleaner, more resilient future.
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