National Energy Summit Commenced
A two-day ‘National Energy Summit’ was officially opened by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele in Honiara this morning, Thursday.
Led by the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, the Summit’s topmost goal is addressing challenges broadly related to affordable energy security through affordable, sustainable and innovative solutions.
Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, delivering the key note address believes the Summit is a significant step towards “Shaping the Future: Sustainable Transformation through Innovative Transitioning of Sustainable Energy Pathways in Solomon Islands for a Secure Energy Sector”.
Prime Minister Manele articulated, the theme of the summit underscores the necessity for innovation in the country’s energy transition- technological innovation, Policy innovation, financial innovation and partnership.
“Decentralized energy systems, smart grids, and energy storage solutions are just a few examples of how technology can revolutionize our energy landscape,” the Prime Minister stated.
PM Manele also pledge the support of the Government for National Unity and Transformation in energy policy innovation.
“Our government is committed to creating an enabling environment for sustainable energy development. Implementing policies that incentivize investment in renewable energy, streamline regulatory processes, and promote energy efficiency. It also means aligning our energy policies with our broader national development goals and our commitments under international agreements such as the Paris Agreement.”
On financial innovation, the Prime Minister stated, the country must explore innovative financing mechanisms that can attract private sector investment, leverage international climate finance, and ensure that the benefits of renewable energy are accessible to all Solomon Islanders.
The Prime Minister believes, the challenges facing the national energy sector can only be solved through financial partnership between the government, private sector, development partners, civil society, and our communities.
Reiterating GNUT’s staunch commitment to the sustainable transformation of the energy sector, PM Manele revealed, the Energy Summit aims to set clear and actionable goals to transform the energy landscape by 2030.
“Achieve a 50 percent increase in grid connectivity for urban households by 2030. Achieve a 25 percent in grid connectivity for rural households by 2030, based on the 2019 national census baseline.
“Off-grid solar and hydropower connections by 40 percent for both urban and rural households by 2030. Implement measures to reduce the accumulated fuel costs by 7.5 percent annually from the 2023 baseline. Work towards a 25 percent annual reduction in electricity tariffs over the next three years starting from the 2023 tariff baseline. “
The Prime Minister underlined, the energy legislative base is also undergoing transformation.
These outcomes will ensure more accessible, affordable, and sustainable energy system that supports the nation’s broader development goals.
GNUT is determined that the National Energy Summit is a catalyst for sustainable energy innovation.
- OPMC
