Energy security: 8 ways the UN is supporting the Pacific to reduce fuel reliance

For Pacific Island countries, these risks are particularly acute, affecting energy prices, fiscal stability and long-term development. 

At the launch of the 2026 State of Climate Report, UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted: “Our addiction to fossil fuels is destabilizing both the climate and global security… Renewables deliver climate security, energy security and national security.” 

Across the Pacific region, the United Nations is working with 14 countries and territories to strengthen energy security and accelerate the shift to renewable and resilient energy systems. 

Eight ways this support is being delivered: 

1. Developing strategic energy roadmaps 
In FSM, ESCAP supported the SDG 7 Roadmap to guide investments in access, renewables and efficiency. In Solomon Islands, a National Cooling Action Plan is being developed to reduce demand and improve efficiency in cooling systems. 

2. Leveraging energy modelling and data 
ESCAP’s NEXSTEP modelling has enabled FSM to shape its National Energy Policy 2024–2050, helping policymakers identify cost-effective pathways and reduce exposure to external price shocks. 

3. Supporting small-island energy systems 
In countries such as Kiribati, Nauru and Palau, tailored support focuses on integrating renewables into small grids while maintaining system reliability and affordability. 

4. Expanding renewable access in remote communities 
UNDP is supporting renewable energy expansion, including rural electrification initiatives in Fiji and Kiribati. Replication of similar approaches is being explored in places such as Tuvalu. 
In Vanuatu, small-scale hydro installations are powering remote communities on Pentecost Island. 

5. Powering health, education and water services 
UNICEF-supported solar systems are improving healthcare reliability in countries including Kiribati, Samoa and Fiji. 
Solar energy is also enabling digital education tools in schools across multiple Pacific nations. 
Solar-powered water systems further enhance resilience while reducing reliance on fuel. 

6. Introducing cleaner waste management technologies 
In Solomon Islands, solar-powered medical waste treatment systems are replacing fuel-intensive incineration, reducing emissions and improving safety in healthcare waste management. 

7. Enabling low-carbon transport transitions 
Through CAP-IT, UNDP supports countries including Samoa in advancing electric mobility and maritime transport innovation—reducing fuel imports and emissions. 

8. Building capacity for the future 
Training initiatives, including solar installation programmes in Solomon Islands, are developing local expertise. 
At the regional level, ESCAP and OPERA are strengthening regulatory capacity and financing strategies to support clean energy investments. 

Moving forward together 

Energy security remains a shared challenge across the Pacific—but also a shared opportunity. Through coordinated support, the United Nations is helping countries transition toward energy systems that are cleaner, more resilient and less dependent on imported fuels. 

For Pacific Island countries, this transition is essential not only for climate goals, but for economic resilience, reliable services and long-term national security.