Fiji is making significant strides toward a fully renewable energy future, bolstered by a $2 million grant from the World Bank. This partnership with Energy Fiji Limited is set to enhance the power grid and stimulate economic growth within the nation.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who is also the Acting Minister for Finance, emphasized that this transition to renewable energy is not solely an environmental endeavor but an essential economic strategy. By reducing dependence on imported fuel, Fiji aims to protect itself from fluctuations in global supply, ensuring a more stable energy future. “We are very, very committed to the renewable energy program and we are very grateful to be here to sign this grant agreement,” he stated, highlighting that the significance of this initiative may not yet be fully appreciated by the citizens of Fiji.
World Bank Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific, Carlos Jaramillo, expressed the institution’s commitment to aiding Fiji in its renewable and climate-related transitions. He stated, “We are working very much together as one World Bank Group to support countries not only on renewable and climate transition but generally on improving the living standards of the population and particularly to create jobs for young people.”
The grant agreement paves the way for expedited enhancements to grid reliability and facilitates the seamless integration of hydro, solar, and wind power sources. This development is a promising sign of Fiji’s dedication to a sustainable energy future and its potential to bolster economic resilience while protecting the environment.
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