The Pacific could become the first region in the world to be powered entirely by renewable energy, according to a new proposal unveiled during the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting.
From a press release it states that the from the discussion paper, Powering Up the Blue Pacific: How the Pacific can be the world’s first 100% renewable energy region, argues that Pacific island nations can save billions of dollars by moving away from fossil fuels, redirecting resources toward sustainable development, and leading the global shift to clean energy.
Switching to renewables such as wind and solar, supported by modern battery storage, would cut fuel costs, create new industries and jobs, and expand access to electricity for all Pacific Islanders.
The initiative is being championed by President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. of Palau, who said Pacific nations contribute the least to global emissions but face the worst effects of the climate crisis. He stressed that the Pacific has always believed in “leadership by example.”
Currently, Pacific island countries spend between 10 and 25 percent of their GDP on imported fossil fuels, with some devoting up to 40 percent of national budgets to diesel for power and transport. Redirecting this money into communities would deliver widespread social and economic benefits.
The proposal builds on existing achievements in renewable energy across the region, alongside falling costs and improving efficiency of clean technologies. It also ties into the Pacific’s joint bid with Australia to host COP31 in 2026. If successful, the global climate summit would be the largest ever held in the Pacific, drawing tens of thousands of delegates.
President Whipps said COP31 would not only shine a spotlight on the Pacific’s vulnerability to the climate crisis but also showcase regional leadership in tackling it. He called for a landmark “100% Renewable Pacific” partnership to emerge from the summit, which could attract international investment and accelerate the transition.
Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change, Energy and Environment, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, welcomed the proposal but stressed that major polluting nations must also act urgently. He said wealthy countries need to immediately end new fossil fuel projects and commit to a clear timeline to phase out existing ones.
