Progress Data

The Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are forging an unwavering path towards a sustainable future, marked by a steadfast commitment to amplify the deployment of renewable energy (RE) technologies as a cornerstone of their dynamic energy transition efforts. This is reflected in the latest IRENA statistics highlighting that solar energy accounts for 52% of the total installed RE capacity in SIDS, while hydropower remains a significant player but reflected a slight increase of 19% (2.1 GW) in 2023. Bioenergy has grown significantly by 16% (1.7 GW), re-affirming its established use in the SIDS energy mix and widely available resources in the island economies. Geothermal and ocean energy technologies continue, with a modest contribution of 1% (0.06 GW), which underscores the need for applicable research and development (R&D) and tailor-made solutions for emerging just and equitable energy transition solutions. While their impact has been small, these technologies represent potential areas for growth and innovation for SIDS in the renewable energy landscape.

Within the period of 2014 to 2023, the Regional Profiles provide further insights into the distinctive trends observed in each of the three SIDS region. Specifically, the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea (AIS) region have embraced solar energy technologies, representing 68% of total installed RE capacity at 1.41 GW, while bioenergy reached 24% as of 2023. In the Caribbean region, a balanced adoption of solar photovoltaics (PV), bioenergy, and hydropower is evident, comprising 52% (5.38 GW), 23%, and 22%, respectively, of the total RE installed capacity. Notably, the Pacific region showcases a predominant uptake of solar PV, accounting for 35% of the total RE installed capacity of 1.27 GW.