Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Cooper Wale has called for urgent action to turn global clean energy commitments into practical results for small island states.
Speaking at the COP31 High-Level Dialogue on Clean Energy Transition and Electrification, themed “35 by 35: Powering the Future”, in Antalya, Türkiye, the Prime Minister said the 35-by-35 pledge must deliver meaningful change, particularly for countries facing major energy challenges.
He highlighted Solomon Islands’ heavy reliance on diesel, with more than 90 per cent of its electricity grid powered by diesel, contributing to some of the world’s highest electricity tariffs.
The Prime Minister identified the 15-megawatt Tina River Hydropower Project as a major step towards changing this situation.
“Once operational, it is expected to supply approximately 70 per cent of Honiara’s energy needs and displace 78.35 gigawatt-hours of fossil fuel,” he said.
However, he stressed that extending electricity to rural and isolated communities remains difficult due to high infrastructure costs, geography, land tenure issues and limited technical capacity.
Prime Minister Wale called for dedicated financing windows for least developed countries and small island developing states.
He stressed that grants and highly concessional financing are essential to avoid increasing debt vulnerabilities.
He also urged international partners to support climate-resilient energy infrastructure, technology transfer and skills development, with solutions designed for the specific circumstances of small island nations.
“For diesel-dependent SIDS like us, 35-by-35 is about energy security. It must not become another unfulfilled pledge,” the Prime Minister said.
He stressed that the energy transition must be inclusive and affordable, ensuring rural communities are not left behind.
The Prime Minister said reliable electricity underpins health, education, food, water and safer communities, calling on the international community to act now and ensure the transition remains aligned with the 1.5-degree goal.
Source : PMO
