A EUROPEAN Union-funded 15million euro ($F39.56m) regional electrification agreement with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) will advance inclusive, sustainable, and resilient socioeconomic development in Pacific Island countries, said EU Commissioner for International Relations Jozef Sikela.
Prior to signing the agreement, Mr Sikela stated that the project would enhance access to electricity from renewable energy sources in rural communities.
Pacific Regional director of the Global Green Growth Institute Sakiusa Tuisolia acknowledged the funding.
“We have strong support from the European Union. The 15 million euro investment under the Pacific Regional electrification more than just an energy program,” he said.
“It is about empowering Pacific communities through clean, reliable and resilient energy solutions.”
Mr Tuisolia highlighted the current state of electrification in the region, noting that while the Pacific has a population of about 15.7 billion and a combined economy of about $US45 billion ($F101.65b), about 40 per cent of its people live in poverty.
“Overall, about 30 per cent only have access to electricity. 80 per cent don’t have access to electricity.”
Mr Tuisolia provided specific access rates for several countries.
“In Fiji, I believe it’s about 92 per cent in Tuvalu and Tonga and Palau, I think it’s 100 per cent access.
“In Samoa, it’s about 96 per cent and up in the Solomon Islands. I believe it’s about 70 per cent.”
Mr Tuisolia emphasised the partnership’s significance.
“We’re very thankful to the European Union for its investment, which demonstrates the power of genuine partnership with the Pacific to address the climate mitigation and the adaptation and resilience of Pacific communities.”
Mr Tuisolia said that the project’s benefits would extend beyond electricity.
“Through the collaboration, we’re not only expanding electricity supply and access, but we’re also unlocking the opportunities for the generation of co-benefits in education, health and livelihoods.
“Every solar panel or alternative renewable energy system that is installed in the communities that will benefit from this program, every light that is switched on, that will bring us closer to a more sustainable, inclusive Pacific.
“By focusing on remote communities with the lowest electrification rates, we are making sure that no one is left behind.”
Mr Tuisolia concluded that the initiative would improve the quality of life, support women and youth, and help countries achieve renewable energy and climate action targets.
“Now we are ready to get to work and to turn this commitment into real change for the Pacific communities.
Mr Tuisolia expressed his hope that this would be the start of a long relationship.
“It’s one of trust. It’s our first support from the European Union. The European Union has been around for such a long time. They’re one of the biggest donors in the region and we’re happy to be working with them.
“We’re hopeful that this will be just the beginning of many partnerships to come.”
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Note: This article was first published under the headline: EU to fund green energy projects in the Pacific in Page 15 of the print version of The Fiji Times dated Saturday, September 06, 2025
