Government of the Republic of Fiji

03/25/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/24/2024 17:46

ASST. MINISTER HON. SAKIUSA TUBUNA'S SPEECH AT THE DIALOGUE WORKSHOP ON PROMOTING SOLAR ENERGY IN...

The Indian High Commissioner to Fiji - His Excellency Mr Karthigeyan
UNDP Resident Representative - Ms Tuya Altangerel
Invited Guests
Respected representatives from our PIDF member countries
Ladies and Gentlemen

Ni sa bula Vinaka and Welcome to Fiji!

I am indeed priviledged to be here this morning and to officiate at this Workshop on Promoting Solar Energy in Pacific Nations.

I extend my sincere gratitude to the organisers and all participants for coming together to engage in this important discussion aimed at advancing sustainable energy solutions in our region.

The Pacific region faces unique energy challenges, including geographic isolation and vulnerability to climate change impacts. I am very much convinced that solar energy has the potential to significantly aid in our transition towards sustainable energy, aligning with the net-zero targets set by the majority of pacific countries for 2050. Additionally, it can assist us in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

The Solarization of Head of State Residences (SHOS) project, undertaken across 10 Pacific Island Development Forum (PIDF) member countries, exemplifies our commitment to harness clean, renewable energy technologies in the region.

I have been informed that this project has also supported solar installations at the Fiji State House, the Official Residence of the Prime Minister of Fiji, and the Residence of the Turaga na Vunivalu, on Bau Island.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Government of Fiji is committed to this cause in our battle against extreme carbon emission and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

I wish to also express my gratitude to the Government of India, UNDP, and PIDF for their invaluable support, vision and investments as we try to meet our climate mitigation targets for the Pacific Region.

I believe that this initiative will contribute to reducing reliance on grid power to some extent. We aim to scale-up this effort to other public buildings as well.

There is a significant demand for solar energy in the Pacific region, but our ability to meet this demand is not moving as expected mainly because of financing and limited capacity on project execution. We have limited suppliers, installers, and consulting firms capable of designing solar projects.

Therefore, we also request all stakeholders to participate in capacity-building efforts and collaborate to scaling-up the solarization of public buildings throughout the Pacific.

As we embark on this journey towards a more sustainable energy future, I request all participants to actively engage in the discussions, share their expertise, and collaborate in identifying innovative solutions.

Together, let us seise this opportunity to catalyse positive change and pave the way for a cleaner, brighter future for generations to come.

I call upon all stakeholders to join hands in accelerating the adoption of solar energy across the Pacific. Together, let us harness the power of the sun to build a resilient, prosperous, and sustainable future for generations to come.

In closing, I extend my best wishes for fruitful deliberations and meaningful outcomes from this workshop. May our collective efforts contribute significantly to the promotion of solar energy in Pacific nations.

Thank you once again for your participation and commitment to advancing sustainable development in our region.