Suva, Fiji – 21 June 2024 – The reliance on fossil fuel and the impacts of climate change have increased the economic and infrastructural vulnerability of the energy sector in Fiji. As part of the Fiji Department of Energy’s drive to increase renewable energy deployment and improve energy security, the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and Arizona State University (ASU) have collaborated on the project ‘Accelerating Solar Mini-grid Deployment in Fiji’ which has completed feasibility studies for solar mini–grids in 75 isolated communities with aim of mobilizing investment for future solar installations. 

The study began with in-person assessments, followed by detailed power system design, geospatial site planning, business and financial model reviews, and assessments of climate change impacts.  “It’s important to ensure sustainability and effectiveness of the solar mini-grid installation,” Taniela Tabuya, GGGI’s senior energy officer said. “This study aims to support the Government of Fiji, including the Department of Energy and the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund, in providing isolated communities with dependable and cost-effective electricity, reducing their dependence on fossil fuels for generation,” he added. 

Initiated in 2023, the project has focused on developing solar mini-grid feasibility studies for infrastructure in isolated communities in Fiji. The feasibility studies, including detailed surveys of each site show that around $60 million USD investment is needed to bring clean energy to all 75 sites. “The solar mini-grids will be designed to cater to a range of energy needs, including residential households, public services, and small businesses. This initiative is a significant step towards bridging energy gaps in isolated communities through innovative solar PV solutions, paving the way for broader socioeconomic benefits and environmental sustainability,” Mr. Miakele Belena, Director of Energy, Fiji said. 

About Accelerating Solar Mini-Grid Deployment in Fiji Project 

The project aims to enhance access to sustainable energy in Fiji’s remote areas by identifying and assessing mini-grid sites. Activities include feasibility studies, technical designs, geospatial mapping, ownership model comparisons, and financial viability assessments for 75 sites currently powered by underloaded or deteriorating diesel mini-grids. The project will produce geospatial databases and detailed evaluations of these sites, preparing them for tender documents and competitive bidding. In partnership with Arizona State University and leveraging GGGI’s local capacity, the project aims to generate USD 60M in investments for solar, storage, generators, inverters, controllers, metering, demand management, and distribution equipment. 

About Arizona State University (ASU)

Arizona State University (ASU) operates networks and projects in over 100 countries with $700M expenditures per annum in research, development, technology evaluation, consulting and analysis, and workforce development. ASU has led or partnered on numerous planning and pilot electrification projects from USAID, US Department of Energy, International Renewable Energy Agency, ADB, World Bank, UNHCR, and others. 

(GGGI Pacific) 

(GGGI Seoul HQ)