Future of Renewable Energy in Small Island Developing States

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are among the most vulnerable regions to the effects of climate change.

Their small size, geographic isolation, and exposure to the ocean make them particularly susceptible to sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and resource shortages.

These same factors also drive up the costs of basic goods and services, including energy.

Despite being at the frontline of climate change, most SIDS remain dependent on imported fossil fuels for electricity—an expensive and polluting energy source.

Transitioning to clean, renewable energy is increasingly seen as the solution to provide these nations with zero-emission, reliable, and cost-effective energy.

Scaling up renewable energy infrastructure could help SIDS reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels while making their energy systems more resilient and self-sufficient.

Challenges in transitioning to renewable energy

An article from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), authored by Vice-President Scott Morris and Energy Specialist Eric J. Lam, outlines the barriers SIDS face in scaling up renewable energy. Their challenges are compounded by outdated and vulnerable infrastructure, inadequate investment, and limited financial resources.

Aging power grids are exposed to storms, flooding, and sea-level rise, leading to unreliable electricity supplies and high costs. Countries such as Nauru, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, the Solomon Islands, and Tonga are identified as particularly at risk.

To overcome these challenges, the authors recommend:

• Strengthening local capacity and institutional support through training, policy design, and collaboration.
• Enhancing regulatory frameworks to attract sustainable energy investment.
• Building resilience against extreme weather by investing in durable infrastructure.
• Leveraging indigenous knowledge to design locally appropriate, sustainable solutions.

Renewable energy potential in SIDS

A perspective article, “Wind and solar energy in Small Island Developing States for mitigating global climate change”, published in iScience in October 2024, highlights the immense potential of SIDS to harness renewable energy.

The study assessed carbon dioxide emissions, energy consumption, and installed wind and solar capacity across 39 SIDS between 2014 and 2023. The Dominican Republic led the growth in renewable energy deployment, followed by Jamaica.

Many SIDS have pledged to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030. If the national targets set by the top 10 countries are realised, they would collectively deliver 13 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity.

SIDS have abundant renewable resources: plentiful sunshine, strong winds, and ocean currents. Tapping into these will not only reduce fossil fuel dependence but also cut greenhouse gas emissions and align with global climate goals.

A roadmap for energy independence

The iScience article also highlights the economic and social benefits of renewable energy, including job creation and opportunities for sustainable growth. However, SIDS face unique barriers, including limited land availability, financial constraints, insufficient technical expertise, and intermittent power generation.

To overcome these obstacles, the study recommends a roadmap that includes:

• Comprehensive mapping of solar and wind potential, both onshore and offshore.
• Development of firm policy and regulatory frameworks.
• Capacity-building for government officials, energy professionals, and local stakeholders.
• Community and industry engagement to foster participation in the transition.
• Grid enhancement to handle increased renewable energy deployment.
• Mobilisation of domestic and international financial resources to support infrastructure and technology.

Building resilient, low-carbon island nations

By investing in solar and wind energy, SIDS have the opportunity to achieve energy independence, lower electricity costs, and create more resilient communities.

With the right policies, financing, and collaboration, renewable energy can serve as both a shield against climate vulnerability and a catalyst for economic transformation.