Suva, Fiji, 26th January 2024 – In a significant stride towards sustainable development, the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) joined the Fiji Ministry of Energy to celebrate the official launch of its National Energy Policy (NEP) 2023 – 2030. The event, which coincided with the International Day for Clean Energy, marked a key moment for Fiji’s energy sector.

Fiji’s energy sector plays a fundamental role in achieving the nation’s developmental goals. These goals include reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, increasing renewable electricity to 100%, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030. The ultimate objective is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

The Fiji Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honorable Vatimi Rayalu, representing the Government of Fiji at the launch said the document is crucial to shaping the nation’s future. “The NEP lays the foundation for a sustainable, inclusive, reliable, and affordable energy sector by the decade’s end. It paves the way for transformative investments urgently needed to enhance our energy landscape,” stated Mr Rayalu.

He added that “the NEP’s objective is to diversify our energy sources, reduce dependence on imports, and promote energy independence. It focuses on five pillars: energy security and resilience, access and equity, sustainability, efficiency, and governance.”

The newly introduced NEP is poised to be a guiding force, steering Fiji’s energy-related interventions until 2030. Its focus will be on fostering a climate-resilient, low-carbon energy sector.

Norbert Maass, Country Representative Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and Kiribati thanked the Government of Fiji for the collaborative effort to develop the National Energy Policy. “The cornerstone of this policy is the dedication of all partners from the private and public sectors to delivering clean and affordable energy to Fijians. GGGI is looking forward to their continued partnership in its implementation.”

GGGI is actively working with Fiji’s Department of Energy (DOE), under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Meteorological Services to identify policy gaps, leveraging comprehensive engagement, stakeholder consultations, and the analysis of energy sector data.

Funded through the Government of New Zealand, the NEP will allow Fiji to strengthen its energy sector to drive economic growth and social inclusion and help contribute to shaping Fiji’s energy landscape and lead to a resilient future for the island nation.

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