The Energy Transition in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG), set against a backdrop of lush rainforests, towering highlands, and vast river systems, is on a transformative path to reshape its energy sector and stimulate economic growth. Positioned on the eastern half of New Guinea, along with numerous surrounding islands, PNG is grappling with the challenge of extending modern energy services across its scattered and diverse communities, many of which rely on traditional biomass and imported diesel. The nation is rich in critical minerals including copper, nickel, cobalt, gold and silver), an asset it plans to leverage alongside its abundant renewable resources such as hydro, solar, and geothermal energy, to electrify remote areas and power its development sustainably. Recognizing the strategic importance of these minerals in the global transition to a low-carbon economy, PNG is poised to play a crucial role in the supply chains for renewable energy technologies worldwide. The country's energy transition strategy underscores efforts to improve energy reliability and foster energy independence, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the environmental footprint of its energy production. With investments in resilient energy infrastructure to endure the Pacific region's climatic challenges and a commitment to international partnerships and technological innovation, PNG is tackling achieving universal energy access and economic diversification.