Pacific island nations have unveiled a historic plan to become the first region in the world to run entirely on renewable energy. This move, driven by the urgency of combating rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and the escalating impacts of climate change, also aims to end their heavy dependence on imported fossil fuels that currently consume up to a quarter of their GDP.
Leaders from across the region will formally release the renewable roadmap next week at COP30 in Brazil, seeking global investment and technological support to achieve their clean energy goals.
For years, Pacific countries have been on the front lines of climate change, championing the fight to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Now, through solar power, batteries, and electric transport, they plan to demonstrate that a complete shift from fossil fuels is not only possible but practical. In the Solomon Islands, electric boats glide silently across the sea; in Papua New Guinea, solar panels light up remote highlands; and across the Cook Islands, large batteries stabilize the local grids. These projects mark the beginning of a much larger transformation.
Currently, Pacific countries spend between A$9–14 billion annually on importing diesel for power generation and transport. However, with the steep fall in solar and battery prices, renewables now offer a cheaper and cleaner alternative. Estimates suggest that replacing diesel with solar and storage systems would cost around $3–4 billion but save up to $840 million each year a clear financial incentive alongside the environmental benefits.
Fiji has already pledged to run entirely on renewable energy by 2035, while Tuvalu has set an even earlier target of 2030. Together, these national efforts will feed into a regional goal of 100% renewables, overseen by a new Pacific Energy Commissioner to coordinate the transition.
Despite contributing only 0.02 per cent of global emissions, Pacific nations are among the most vulnerable to the climate crisis. “If we can manage this transition in the Pacific Islands, it can be a beacon for the rest of the world. Our survival depends on it,” said Vanuatu’s climate and energy minister, Ralph Regenvanu.
The success of this ambitious shift could hinge on upcoming global climate negotiations. The Pacific and Australia have jointly bid to host COP31 in 2026, competing with Turkey. Leaders hope that securing the summit would draw international investors to accelerate their clean energy plans. Palau President Surangel Whipps emphasized that hosting COP31 “must demonstrate tangible benefits to Pacific peoples.”
Australia, which is itself expanding renewables and supporting regional projects, is expected to play a key role in financing. However, Pacific leaders have also urged Canberra to stop approving new coal and gas projects and end subsidies for fossil fuel production.
The Pacific’s roadmap offers not only a model of climate resilience but a powerful message of self-reliance and hope. By moving from fossil fuel dependency to clean power, these small island nations are taking an outsized step toward a sustainable global future and urging the rest of the world to follow their lead.