THE ROAD TO CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION; KEY MESSAGES SHARED BY MY BRIAN PARK
Amidst the challenges faced by the nation due to the increasing effects of climate change, the Nadi based Nabou Green Energy Pte Limited is working towards a Biomass energy project. Biomass is a renewable organic material that comes from plants. It is converted to energy through direct combustion (burning) to produce heat and generate power with steam turbine. The project is a 12MW Biomass power plant and they are expected to produce around 7% of Fiji's electricity, which would help reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions.
General Manager Administration, Brian Park says moving towards the usage of clean energy is important for small island nations like Fiji in order to address the challenges posed by climate change, reduce their dependence on imported fossil fuels, create new economic opportunities and protect the health of their communities.
“Small island nations like Fiji are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as sea level rise, increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and changes in rainfall patterns. These impacts can have significant social, economic, and environmental consequences for island communities, including impacts on infrastructure, food security, and health” he added.
Park says that moving towards the usage of clean energy is important for small island nations like Fiji for several reasons. In a e-interview with the Consumer Council of Fiji, he stated the following:
Reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels: Most small island nations rely heavily on imported fossil fuels to meet their energy needs, which is expensive and vulnerable to price fluctuations. By shifting towards renewable energy sources like biomass, solar, wind, and hydro power, Fiji can reduce their dependence on imported fuels and improve their energy security.
Climate change mitigation: Small Island nations are often seen as being on the "front line" of climate change impacts, and are therefore taking a leadership role in climate change mitigation. By transitioning to clean energy, these countries can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global efforts to address climate change.
Economic development: The development of clean energy projects can create new economic opportunities in small island nations, particularly in the areas of renewable energy infrastructure development, installation, and maintenance. This can help to diversify the economy and create new jobs.
Improved air and water quality: Fossil fuel combustion is a major source of air and water pollution, which can have negative impacts on human health and the environment. By transitioning to clean energy, small island nations can improve the air and water quality in their communities and protect the health of their residents.
Meanwhile, similar to Dr Raturi, Mr Park has also stressed on the challenges which consumers in Fiji face in relation to accessibility and adoption of clean energy. One of the major challenges he has highlighted is the upfront costs involved in clean energy.
“One of the biggest challenges in transitioning to clean energy is the upfront cost of installing new equipment or infrastructure. For example, installing solar panels or a new heat pump can be expensive, and many consumers may not have the resources to make these investments,” said Mr Park.
He further added that another challenge or barrier which is evident is the lack of information. “Many consumers may not have the information or knowledge they need, to make informed decisions about clean energy. This can include information about the costs and benefits of different clean energy technologies, as well as information about how to access financial incentives or financing options”.
Mr Park further alluded that inconsistent policies and regulations can also make it difficult for consumers to make the transition to clean energy. For example, policies that change frequently can create confusion and uncertainty for consumers.
“Many consumers may simply be resistant to change, or may be hesitant to invest in new technologies or infrastructure. This can make it difficult to convince consumers to make the transition to clean energy, even if it is in their best interest to do so,” added Mr Park.
Mr Mark further stressed that addressing these challenges will require a coordinated effort from policymakers, businesses, and other stakeholders. This could include providing financial incentives to make clean energy more affordable, investing in public education campaigns to raise awareness about clean energy options, and developing consistent policies and regulations to create a more favourable environment for clean energy adoption.