Fiji is among 11 countries benefitting from a regional $US1.31 million ($F2.86 million) solarisation project funded through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund channel through United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific.
The project will bring solar power to the homes of heads of state for the 11 Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) nations.
President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere yesterday officiated at the launch of the project at State House accompanied by India’s Minister for External Affairs Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
Speaking at the launch, PIDF director Island Resilience Viliame Kasanawaqa said the initiative was being implemented by PIDF.
“It is more important than ever as the global impacts for COVID-19 has exacerbated the ongoing impact of climate change in the most vulnerable nations, particularly in Pacific island countries,” he said.
“Energy security and sustainable development are at the forefront of the Solar Heads of State initiative launched in Suva today (yesterday).”
He said the launch was a clear demonstration of the vibrant development partnership between India and the Pacific. Following the initial implementation, the country’s government would be responsible for the post-construction maintenance of the system.
