The Energy Transition in Tonga

Tonga, a Polynesian kingdom comprising over 170 South Pacific islands, faces significant energy challenges due to its geographic isolation and reliance on imported fossil fuels. The nation is committed to transforming its energy sector to enhance energy security, reduce environmental impact, and foster sustainable development. Tonga’s energy transition strategy is focused on harnessing renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and building resilience against climate change. Tonga is actively pursuing the integration of renewable energy, with a strong focus on solar and wind energy. The government has set ambitious targets to increase the share of renewables in electricity generation, aiming to reduce dependency on imported diesel fuel. There's a concerted effort to improve energy efficiency across all sectors, including promoting energy-efficient appliances and practices and lowering the energy cost for consumers. Expanding access to electricity in remote and rural areas through renewable energy solutions is a priority. Solar home systems and mini-grid projects are being deployed to ensure that more Tongans have reliable access to clean energy. Given Tonga's vulnerability to climate change, particularly to sea-level rise and extreme weather events, it is adopting more advanced construction standards and practices for infrastructure to withstand severe weather conditions. Building a skilled workforce supporting the energy transition is critical. Tonga relies on support from international partners and neighbouring countries, to finance and implement its energy transition projects.