The government of the Marshall Islands has introduced emergency measures requiring most public offices to close at 3pm daily, as the country faces a growing fuel crisis.

According to RNZ Pacific, the directive is part of a 90-day Emergency Electricity Savings Policy aimed at reducing national energy consumption by 30 percent.

The policy was approved by Cabinet on 10 April and is designed to conserve limited diesel fuel supplies and manage rising global fuel prices linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

Under the new measures, non-essential government offices will operate for reduced hours, while essential services such as hospitals, schools, and health programs will continue as normal.

Government workers will work fewer hours each week but will continue to receive full pay, as authorities aim to ease the financial impact on households.

The policy also requires all government offices to switch off air conditioning, lighting, and other electrical equipment by 3pm each day to reduce strain on the national power system.

Officials say air conditioning is one of the largest contributors to electricity consumption, and new measures will see maintenance and repair services contracted to the private sector to improve efficiency.

The government has also directed agencies to monitor and report electricity usage to ensure the 30 percent reduction target is met.

Authorities say the move is necessary as Pacific Island countries remain highly dependent on imported fuel and are vulnerable to global supply disruptions.

The situation highlights ongoing concerns across the region, where rising fuel costs and limited supply chains continue to impact energy security and the cost of living.

Photo: Marshall Islands Journal

RNZ Pacific – Marshall Islands government shuts down at 3pm amid fuel crisis
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/pacific_marshall-islands/592663/marshall-islands-government-shuts-down-at-3pm-amid-fuel-crisis