China expands solar power support to Solomon Islands, extending clean energy access to 25 more rural constituencies.
By: Steven Kamoa
China is expanding its support for renewable energy in Solomon Islands through the second phase of a mini solar power programme aimed at extending clean energy access to remote communities.
The initiative was highlighted during a signing ceremony involving the Chinese Embassy in Solomon Islands, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, and EverExceed Solomon Islands Company Limited.
Chinese Ambassador Cai Weiming said the programme was intended to provide practical support to communities in remote areas.
“The programme is a practical and community-focused solution that intends to reach remote areas and deliver clean energy to the rural people,” Ambassador Cai said.
Under the first phase, 25 small solar power systems were installed across nine provinces and 25 constituencies, including at churches, classrooms, police facilities and other public service facilities.
The second phase will extend solar power systems to the remaining 25 constituencies.
Ambassador Cai said the initiative also aligns with the Solomon Islands Government’s priorities on climate change and energy security.
“This year’s programme closely aligns with one of the focus of the new Solomon Islands government to address climate change and enhance energy security,” he said.
Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology Wayne Ghemu said the agreement would extend renewable energy access to communities across the country.
“This new agreement will extend the project to the remaining 25 constituencies across the nation,” Minister Ghemu said. “This expansion demonstrates our shared commitment to ensuring that the benefits of clean and renewable energy reach all parts of our nation, especially our rural and remote communities.”
Minister Ghemu said the project was particularly relevant for Solomon Islands as a small island developing state vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
“While our emissions may be minimal, we remain committed to being part of the global solution,” Minister Ghemu said. “Projects such as this mini solar power project demonstrate our willingness to contribute meaningfully towards national and international emission reduction targets.”
He said the solar initiative would also reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and improve access to energy.
“Access to clean energy will support community services, small businesses, education, healthcare and, of course, economic opportunities across the country,” he said.
The programme follows China’s announcement at the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in 2025 to implement small-scale livelihood projects in Pacific Island countries.
Ambassador Cai said China would continue working with Solomon Islands on areas intended to provide practical benefits to communities.
“China is willing to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with the Solomon Islands government, make joint efforts to deepen cooperation in various fields and deliver more tangible benefits to the peoples of our two countries,” Ambassador Cai said.
The second phase is expected to expand renewable energy access to communities across the remaining 25 constituencies.
