High Commission of India
Suva
Press Release
Subject: India signs Agreement with International Solar Alliance (ISA) to implement Solar Energy Projects in Fiji
In a significant step towards advancing clean energy solutions in the Indo-Pacific region, the Government of India signed a Project Implementation Agreement with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) on 26 November 2024 for executing solar projects in Fiji, Comoros, Madagascar, and Seychelles.
This initiative valued at USD 2 million is funded by India as part of its commitments under the Quad Climate Working Group and demonstrates its leadership as it assumes the Presidency of the Quad. The projects include installation of solar pumps, solar refrigerators, and solar rooftop panels, with a targeted completion timeline of mid-2025, reflecting the urgency to address climate challenges in the region.
In Fiji, two solar projects have been proposed under this agreement, aimed at improving overall community resilience and quality of life. The Solar Rooftop Panels (Healthcare) project, valued at US$261,900.00, will provide reliable and sustainable energy to healthcare facilities, significantly improving service delivery and operational efficiency while reducing dependence on traditional power sources. And, the Solar Cold Storage initiative, with an investment of US$277,500.00, will establish robust cold chain infrastructure, essential for preserving perishable goods and life-saving medicines, thereby enhancing food security and healthcare outcomes. These projects will bolster Fiji’s renewable energy capacity, supporting the country’s transition to sustainable energy systems while addressing its unique challenges as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS).
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a global inter-governmental organization dedicated to advancing solar power adoption for a Carbon-neutral future. With 120 member countries including Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga and Tuvalu, ISA plays a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of solar energy worldwide. Its initiatives focus on implementing and scaling solar technology projects, building a robust pipeline of solar ventures across member nations, and delivering capacity-building programs tailored to the unique needs of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). By fostering strategic partnerships and championing innovative solar solutions, the ISA empowers member countries like Fiji to harness clean energy technologies, driving sustainable development and resilience in the face of global energy and climate challenges.
The latest announcement underscores India’s strong commitment to leveraging the Quad platform to drive climate action and energy transition in the Indo-Pacific. These solar projects represent tangible steps toward building resilient and sustainable energy systems in the region, reflecting India’s leadership in addressing global climate goals.
(13 December 2024)
