Pre-COP31 Panel Discussion – Towards a 100% Renewable Energy Future for the Blue Pacific

This session brought together Pacific leaders, development partners and technical experts to explore how renewable energy and clean transport can strengthen energy security, climate resilience and sustainable development across the Blue Pacific.

Building on the Manubada Call to Action, which reaffirms the Pacific’s vision of a 100% renewable energy future and a just, inclusive and equitable transition to a fossil-fuel-free Pacific, and the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership (PBSP) Charter, which seeks to accelerate the development of a sustainable, resilient and decarbonized maritime transport sector by 2050, the discussion highlights practical pathways for delivering these regional ambitions.

Panellists examined opportunities to accelerate renewable energy deployment, electrification, sustainable maritime transport and clean mobility, while identifying the policies, financing, technical assistance and partnerships needed to support Pacific-led implementation. The session will showcase how integrated action across energy and transport can reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, strengthen connectivity and resilience, and advance a fossil-fuel-free future for Pacific communities.

Speakers:

• Hon. Ro Filipe Tuisawau – Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport of Fiji
• Hon. Ralph Regenvanu – Minister for Climate Change Adaptation, Meteorology and Geo-Hazards, Energy, Environment and National Disaster Management of Vanuatu
• Hon. Ambassador Albon Ishoda – Presidential Special Envoy for Maritime Decarbonization for the Republic of Marshall Islands and the co-chair of the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership
• Mr Sitalingi Payne  – Regional Coordinator IMO Regional Presence Office for the Pacific
• Ratu Sakiusa Tuisolia  – Regional Director Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Pacific