Fiji Plans Major Renewable Energy Reforms to Reach 100% Clean Electricity by 2036

Fiji is accelerating its transition to renewable energy with a series of regulatory and policy reforms aimed at generating 100% of its electricity from clean sources by 2036. The initiative is outlined in a recent assessment prepared by the International Renewable Energy Agency in collaboration with Fiji’s Department of Energy. The report highlights the steps the island nation must take to strengthen laws, improve infrastructure, and attract private investment to support its long-term clean energy goals.

According to the assessment, Fiji already relies heavily on renewable power compared with many countries. Hydropower currently produces about 61% of the country’s electricity, while bioenergy contributes around 29%. Solar and wind energy together account for roughly 10% of the electricity mix, indicating that renewable sources already dominate the nation’s power supply. However, the country still depends on imported fossil fuels during periods when renewable generation is insufficient, which exposes the economy to fluctuations in global fuel prices.

The report identifies several barriers that could slow Fiji’s progress toward a fully renewable power system. One major challenge is aging grid infrastructure, which limits the ability to integrate new renewable energy projects. The study also highlights a shortage of technical expertise needed to support large-scale renewable deployment and modern grid management. In addition, existing regulatory frameworks and institutional arrangements can discourage independent power producers from investing in new energy projects.

Another issue is the structure of the electricity sector, where a single utility controls transmission and distribution networks. This arrangement can create challenges for new renewable developers seeking grid access or market entry. To address these obstacles, the report recommends reforms such as updating energy laws, streamlining approval processes, improving regulatory oversight, and expanding grid capacity.

Fiji has also set a broader environmental objective of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, making renewable energy expansion a central part of its national climate strategy. Experts say that if the proposed reforms are implemented effectively, Fiji could become a global example for other small island nations working to build sustainable and resilient energy systems.