Energy Security in the Pacific

Energy security is a multifaceted concept, depending on whether the perspective is national or household level, urban or rural, higher or lower income, commercial or individual. Energy security in the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) has progressed in some areas such as energy access and renewable electricity generation but less in others such as affordability and energy efficiency, while a significant dependence on petroleum imports remains. New aspects of energy security are emerging, notably climate resilience, transport, and gender. Better data can inform evidence-based decision making but the cost and effort against the available capacities for data collection and analysis must be considered. While continued investment is needed for renewables and energy efficiency, a greater shift in climate finance towards adaptation and development of resilient energy systems in the PICTs is vital. Finance must also be found for securing petroleum supplies and their safe use while they are still needed.