Samoa’s Minister for Natural Resources and Environment, Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, addressed the Oceania Renewable Power Summit in Auckland, calling for faster action on transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
“We are at the beginning of the end for fossil fuels,” Schuster said. “The UN’s COP28 decision didn’t go as far as we, the most vulnerable nations, had hoped, but it is a step in the right direction.”
Schuster outlined the Pacific’s challenges in moving to renewable energy, citing geographical isolation, financial constraints, and dependence on fossil fuels in sectors like transportation and electricity. However, he expressed optimism about Samoa’s efforts, including its goal of 70% renewable energy by 2031 and new initiatives like the Renewable Energy Rebate Scheme.
“We are committed to collaborating with international partners and investors to overcome these obstacles,” Schuster stated. “The Pacific Green Transformation Project is already underway in Samoa, aiming to decarbonize the transport sector, which is critical for us.”
Schuster stressed the importance of focusing on practical solutions rather than continued discussions.
“The solutions are out there. We need to stop talking and start implementing them,” he said.
The summit brings together leaders and experts to discuss renewable energy solutions, particularly for the Pacific’s transition. Schuster closed his remarks by emphasizing the importance of partnerships: “Our transition will depend on finding the right partners to help accelerate our shift to clean energy.”
The summit continues through September 18.
