Dr. Sivendra Michael, the Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change in Fiji and the country’s Chief Negotiator at COP29, pointed out significant opportunities for solar and hydropower investments in Fiji. However, he expressed concerns that the nation’s specific circumstances hinder the large-scale adoption of these renewable energy technologies.
During a round-table discussion on accelerating the Just Energy Transition in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Dr. Michael emphasized that despite Pacific Island nations contributing only about 0.03 percent of global emissions, they continue to set ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aligned with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. He underscored the necessity for larger economies to establish strong NDCs and provide clear market signals to facilitate technology transfer and substantial emission reductions, which is crucial for achieving sustainable development.
Dr. Michael argued for the need for long-term planning to reach the net zero emissions target, rather than focusing on short-term goals. He encouraged governments to shift investment strategies and mindsets through incentives, capacity-building opportunities, and new partnerships that support long-term low-carbon growth.
Fiji has set a legally enshrined target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, with the current NDC aiming for 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030. To meet these goals, the country will require substantial resources and collaboration to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Notably, Fiji’s NDC Implementation Roadmap estimates that around US$2.97 billion in investment is necessary between 2017 and 2030 to cut energy sector emissions by 30%. Furthermore, the consolidated financing needs for a primary mitigation program across various sectors are projected to be around US$2 billion from 2022 to 2030.
Dr. Michael stressed that meaningful progress for Fiji and other Pacific nations hinges on action from major emitters, warning that without global commitment to transition conditions, the pursuit of a just energy transition would be severely compromised. UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner reinforced that clean, affordable, and reliable renewable energy is not only essential for resilience but also presents a significant economic growth opportunity, particularly for the tourism sector, which can play a vital role in investing in renewable infrastructure.
Although the transition to electric mobility presents challenges, particularly due to the need for robust infrastructure, there remains a hopeful outlook for Small Island Developing States. With increased cooperation and commitment on a global scale, these nations can leverage renewable energy to foster sustainable development and resilience in the face of climate change.
In summary, the discussion at COP29 revealed the critical intersection of investment, policy, and international cooperation necessary to facilitate a successful energy transition in Fiji and other SIDS, with a hopeful perspective on the collective action needed to unlock the potential for a sustainable future.
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