Publications

The Small Island Developing States Lighthouses Initiative Annual Progress Report 2023 summarises the remarkable achievements of SIDS in their sustainable energy transition from the year 2021-2022 and documents the efforts to move from pledges to action in energy transition and climate resilience.

This SIDS Lighthouses Initiative (LHI) Annual Progress Report provides an overview of energy transformation and implementation progress in small island developing states (SIDS). Notably, the political commitment to renewables among SIDS remains unwavering despite the setbacks generated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This SIDS LHI progress report provides an overview of SIDS energy transformation since the initiative’s launch in 2014. It highlights key developments in the energy transformation undertaken jointly by SIDS and development partners, as shared with IRENA and featured on the associated knowledge-sharing platform.

This SIDS LHI progress report provides an overview of SIDS energy transformation since the initiative’s launch in 2014. It highlights key developments in the energy transformation undertaken jointly by SIDS and development partners, as shared with IRENA and featured on the associated knowledge-sharing platform.

The SIDS Lighthouses Initiative (LHI), launched at the United Nations Climate Summit in 2014, aims to support SIDS in their energy transformation. As a framework for action, it addresses all elements of the energy transition, from policy and market frameworks to technology options and capacity building. The Initiative facilitates co-ordinated support for SIDS, primarily through partnerships with public, private, intergovernmental and non-governmental stakeholder organisations.

This SIDS LHI progress report provides an overview of SIDS energy transformation since the initiative’s launch in 2014. It highlights key developments in the energy transformation undertaken jointly by SIDS and development partners, as shared with IRENA and featured on the associated knowledge-sharing platform.

This SIDS LHI progress report provides an overview of SIDS energy transformation since the initiative’s launch in 2014. It highlights key developments in the energy transformation undertaken jointly by SIDS and development partners, as shared with IRENA and featured on the associated knowledge-sharing platform.

This SIDS LHI progress report provides an overview of SIDS energy transformation since the initiative’s launch in 2014. It highlights key developments in the energy transformation undertaken jointly by SIDS and development partners, as shared with IRENA and featured on the associated knowledge-sharing platform.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Antigua and Barbuda is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Aruba in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Aruba is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Bahamas in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. The Bahamas is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Barbados in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Barbados is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Belize in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Belize is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Cabo Verde in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Cabo Verde is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Comoros in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Comoros is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Cook Islands in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Cook Islands is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Cuba in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Cuba is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Dominican Republic in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. The Dominican Republic is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Dominica in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Dominica is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Republic of Fiji in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Fiji is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Grenada in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Grenada is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Guyana in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Guyana is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Republic of Kiribati in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Kiribati is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Republic of Maldives in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Maldives is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Marshall Islands in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Marshall Islands are a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Mauritius in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Mauritius is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of The Federated States of Micronesia in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Micronesia is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Montserrat in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Montserrat is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Nauru in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Nauru is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of New Caledonia in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. New Caledonia is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Niue in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Niue is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Palau in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Palau is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Papua New Guinea in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Papua New Guinea is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Saint Kitts and Nevis is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Saint Lucia in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Saint Lucia is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Samoa in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Samoa is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Sao Tomé and Principe in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Sao Tomé and Principe is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Seychelles in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Seychelles is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Singapore in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Singapore is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Solomon Islands in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Solomon Islands are a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Kingdom of Tonga in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Tonga is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Trinidad and Tobago is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Turks and Caicos Islands in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Turks and Caicos Islands is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of Tuvalu in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Tuvalu is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Government of the Republic of Vanuatu in collaboration with development partners have developed the documents provided in the links below to enhance the country's energy transformation and meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement. Vanuatu is a partner of the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative.

The Solomon Islands National Energy Policy (SINEP) is a forward-looking publication that presents the Government’s priorities and strategic directions for the energy sector over the next 10 years, with the overarching goal of fostering sustainable economic development in the country. It represents an enhancement to previous energy policies and is closely aligned with the National Development Strategy (NDS) of Solomon Islands 2016 – 2035, envisioning a “United and Vibrant Solomon Islands.” This comprehensive policy recognizes energy as a crucial driver for economic growth, social development, and community well-being. Despite challenges such as low national electricity coverage, high energy costs, and heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, the document highlights the nation’s abundant renewable energy resources, urging their judicious utilization to minimize adverse impacts on the economy and society. Developed through extensive consultations with various stakeholders, SINEP is a country-owned and led document, open to future adjustments to address emerging energy needs. The Government also intends to establish an energy advisory committee to monitor the policy’s progress against performance indicators, ensuring effective implementation and positive outcomes for the nation’s energy future.

A number of SIDS are adopting targets and policies to incorporate substantial amounts of renewable energy into their electricity supply mix.

The least-electrified SIDS are now at a crossroads to meet universal energy access. Instead of increasing access through imported fossil fuels, they can pursue decentralised renewable energy solutions.

Through the SIDS Lighthouses Initiative, and in support of Sao Tome and Principe’s implementation of its Nationally Determined Contributions, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis of mitigation options available to the country’s power sector. The aim of this study is to support climate policy decision makers by providing information that can assist in the prioritisation of mitigation measures in the power sector, both for the NDC implementation phase and for long-term sectoral plans.

This publication presents a comprehensive assessment of Saint Kitts and Nevis' efforts in combating climate change through renewable energy integration and emissions reduction. Highlighting the country's vulnerability to rising sea levels and natural disasters, the report outlines the progress made since 2016, when the nation submitted its first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in alignment with the Paris Agreement. With a strong focus on energy and transportation sectors, the NDC addresses challenges posed by greenhouse gas emissions. Leveraging assistance from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the assessment evaluates the cost-effectiveness of various mitigation options, emphasizing renewable energy adoption and sustainable strategies. The analysis underscores the country's dedication to sustainable development and its pursuit of ambitious emissions reduction targets, while also reflecting on sector-specific insights and recommendations.

This technical paper presents a quantification of SIDS’ renewable energy targets, both in their national energy plans and in their NDCs.

The brochure provides an overview of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) support the parties to the Paris Agreement worldwide in updating their NDCs through analysis, knowledge and expertise on technologies, policies and finance for the global energy transition. In the run-up to COP26, IRENA has been working closely with the UNFCCC, the COP26 presidency, global, regional, national and local partners to build momentum for an inclusive climate action, based on renewables that also contribute to strengthening resilience to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and generating socio-economic benefits such as green jobs.

Offshore renewable energy – including offshore wind and solar power, as well as emerging ocean energy technologies – could support sustainable long-term development and drive a vibrant blue economy. For countries and communities around the world, offshore renewables can provide reliable, stable electricity, as well as support water desalination and aquaculture.

This report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) considers the status and prospects of offshore renewable sources and recommends key actions to accelerate their uptake.

Oceans contain vast renewable energy potential – theoretically equivalent to more than double the world's current electricity demand. Nascent ocean energy technologies could cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from power generation and help to ensure a sustainable, climate-safe energy future.

Alongside other offshore renewable energy technologies, ocean energy – including wave, tidal, salinity gradient and ocean thermal energy conversion technologies – forms a crucial component in the world's emerging blue economy.

Mini-grids are complex systems dependent on different suppliers and used in different applications, often with high regulatory uncertainty over their installation and operation. Creating a viable market for renewable-based mini-grids, with prospects of growth and long-term profitability for investors, depends on establishing trustworthy quality infrastructure (QI) for the technologies and systems involved.

This report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights the crucial role of QI for the development of smart renewable mini-grids. Grid-connected mini-grids can increase power system resilience and reliability, while facilitating the integration of solar and wind power. Renewable mini-grids far off the main grid, meanwhile, can provide reliable electricity access for remote areas and islands.

Many of the world’s Small Island Developing States (SIDS) have started to integrate renewables into their electricity supply mix. The expected benefits include reducing dependency on costly, sometimes volatile fossil-fuel imports. But local utilities must also ensure reliable supply amid the shift to variable sources, such as solar and wind energy. This guide from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) can assist in decision making and help to carry out successful technical planning studies on solar and wind integration into SIDS power systems.

Islands around the world face crucial energy challenges, including fuel import dependency, high electricity costs, environmental sensitivity and vulnerability to climate change. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) co-operates closely with island countries to accelerate their shift to renewables and help ensure a sustainable energy future.

A Path to Prosperity highlights the role of islands in global efforts against climate change. The third edition of this compilation from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) marks the occasion of the United Nations climate conference, COP22, in November 2016.

A Path to Prosperity: Renewable Energy for Islands presents a compilation of case studies from small island developing states (SIDS) and development partners. These demonstrate real-life project viability, highlight innovative solutions and showcase successful partnerships, which together are advancing the deployment of renewable energy in SIDS.

Many islands face shortages of fresh water. Desalination using renewable energy can meet their water needs at reduced costs, this report finds.

Renewable energy technologies, including wind power, can help even the most remote islands achieve energy security and sustainability, while cutting fuel import costs. This extensive study from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) provides guidelines for islands to conduct detailed resource measurements, in order to ensure optimal siting of wind turbines for power generation.

Tourism is an important economic driver for island economies. Energy supply, vital for the tourism industry, is still dominated by oil products which increases islands’ vulnerability to the environmental impact of fossil-fuel use, as well as to oil price volatility, which makes it difficult for the industry to remain competitive.

Islands around the world rely on costly fossil-fuel imports, often from distant locations, which can burden government budgets and inhibit investment in social and economic development. A transition to indigenous renewable energy, however, can reduce import dependence and create important business and employment opportunities.

Pacific islands are endowed with a rich variety of renewable energy resources, providing a viable and attractive alternative to fossil-fuel imports. IRENA’s multi-faceted work across the region is reflected in Pacific Lighthouses: Renewable Energy Roadmapping for Islands. The main report, intended to provide a framework for further action, is accompanied by 15 reports on specific islands, as well as a report detailing hybrid power systems for the Pacific.

Kiribati has identified a need for clear medium-term targets for fuel import reduction, and to complement these by scaling up renewables in its energy mix. Small scale off-grid solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have been in use since the 1970s, but experience in large-scale grid-connected solar PV applications is limited, necessitating capacity building for Kiribati’s move towards energy independence.

A practical guide for decision-makers and project developers on the available energy storage solutions and their successful applications in the context of islands communities. The report also includes various best practice cases and different scenarios and strategies. It is developed as part of the IRENA Renewables in Islands Initiative (IRII).

This report addresses the specific conditions for policy making on renewables in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) across the Pacific region and proposes measures to support successful implementation. The report identifies the existing challenges and opportunities and will offers recommendations to policy makers for the design and implementation of successful renewable energy policies.

This special collection of country profiles takes stock of the latest developments in renewables in island settings around the world. Each profile provides a brief overview of energy supply, electrical generation and grid capacity, and energy access. The investment climate, targets, major projects and resource potential are also considered.

The Yearbook of Global Climate Action 2023 delves into a pivotal year in the global response to climate change, offering a comprehensive exploration of the outcomes and implications of the first-ever global stocktake. This edition examines the progress made and challenges faced in critical thematic areas, including Energy, Industry, Transport, Human Settlements, Land Use, Water, and Oceans. From the notable surge in commitments on the Global Climate Action Portal to the nuanced analysis of non-Party stakeholders' contributions, the Yearbook provides an in-depth account of the multifaceted landscape of global climate action in 2023. Through detailed assessments and key messages, it serves as a guiding compass as we navigate the intricate path towards a sustainable, resilient future, aligning with the objectives set forth in the Paris Agreement.

The introduction of the report titled “High-Level Panel on the Development of a Multidimensional Vulnerability Index” highlights the growing recognition within the international community of vulnerability as a significant impediment to development, stemming from the impact of various exogenous shocks and stressors faced by nations. These shocks encompass diverse areas, including trade fluctuations, natural disasters, conflicts, and the unprecedented challenges posed by events like the COVID-19 pandemic. The conventional metric of national income, typically measured by Gross National Income per capita (GNI pc), is found to be an inadequate measure of development and well-being, especially for countries exposed to external shocks and lacking resilience. As a result, many vulnerable nations face difficulties in accessing development support due to income-based thresholds for concessional financing.

The report advocates for the creation of a widely accepted Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) to guide development and donor assistance policies, improve the diagnosis of development challenges, and identify nations in need of international assistance. The High-Level Panel's work to develop the MVI aims to bridge this gap through consultation and outreach, offering a two-tiered structure that provides both a quantitative assessment of vulnerability and resilience for developing countries and a detailed characterization of these factors, ultimately assisting countries in their development efforts.

Welcome to the 3rd issue of Saint Lucia’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Highlights Newsletter. Since 2021, the Updated NDC has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 7% by 2030, introduced transformative adaptation initiatives, and initiated processes to address loss and damage. This publication will spotlight progress and success stories contributing to these goals, as well as resource mobilization efforts. While celebrating these achievements, we acknowledge the need to mobilize USD 368 million for mitigation and adaptation targets. Sustainable action demands commitment at all levels, and Saint Lucia’s Department of Sustainable Development is dedicated to collaborating with national and international partners for capacity-building, technological advancements, and financial support to accelerate climate action. We invite all stakeholders to join us in securing a sustainable future for all.

This publication presents the results of a pre-feasibility study to introduce a green hydrogen (GH2) market in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T). The study analyzed the potential supply and competitiveness of producing GH2 in T&T and the actions needed to build a foundation for producing green ammonia and methanol. The study updated previous estimates of renewable energy generation potential in the country. The study also highlighted Trinidad and Tobago's comparative advantage to produce GH2, with its ability to capitalize on existing infrastructure, its know-how and capabilities, and its long-standing trade relations. Lastly, the study identifies demonstration projects and created a roadmap for developing a low carbon hydrogen economy in Trinidad and Tobago.

The report highlights the crucial role of energy in achieving sustainable development and addressing climate change challenges in Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs). Despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, PICTs are committed to transitioning to 100% renewable energy generation, given their vulnerability to severe climate change impacts. The book emphasizes the need for resilient and sustainable energy services, especially in the face of climate change, global energy market transformation, and the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19. FESRIP, developed collaboratively with various regional partners, presents a comprehensive roadmap with 23 priority areas, aiming to guide PICTs in addressing emerging energy issues over the next decade. The framework is designed to be a valuable tool for development partners, aligning with international and regional regulatory arrangements to ensure energy security and resilience in the Pacific Islands region.

The Regional Pacific NDC Hub was formed to support the enhancement and implementation of the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and commitments to the Paris Agreement. The Pacific SIDS are faced with substantial risks to their economic, social and environmental progress, despite their insignificant greenhouse gas emissions.

Strategy 2030 has been developed by the Reginal Pacific NDC Hub in close consultations with the PSIDS to convey the Hub's vision for sustainable development and economic growth. This publication sheds light on the challenges in the Pacific and also highlights the commitments of PSIDS for climate change mitigation, adaption and strengthening resilience against climate change for their livelihoods. It presents the work of the Hub along with key partners, goals, objectives and the anticipated strategic outcomes.

The “Caribbean Sustainable Energy Roadmap (C-SERMS), Phase 1 Summary and Recommendations for Policymakers” was published by The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in June 2013 with support from The Worldwatch Institute and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Phase 1 of this regional roadmap provides an overview of the region’s current energy situation, recommends regional targets for renewable power capacity, energy efficiency, and carbon emissions reductions in the short-term (2017), medium-term (2022), and long-term (2027), and outlines key strategies for achieving those goals. The 15 CARICOM countries covered are: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. For each country the report gives a RE resource assessment, overview of national RE planning, targets and support policies and the institutional and governance structure of the energy sector.