Greening the Islands (GTI) Foundation actively participated in the 2024 UN Climate Conference, COP29, spotlighting progress on 100% renewable islands and the importance of early-stage financing for their decarbonisation strategies. Among several other engagements, GTI Foundation organised three side events in the Blue zone.
On November 14, the event “Taking Off for 100% Renewables: The Importance of Early Finance for Islands’ Leadership”, co-organised with the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) was hosted at the SDG Pavilion.
The session successfully brought together a diverse range of stakeholders to advance a structured global framework aimed at accelerating energy transitions on small islands, with the ambitious target of achieving 100% renewable energy. Discussions built also upon the outcomes of a closed-door meeting held the previous day at the Global Renewables Hub with relevant partners from around the globe.
Moving beyond pledges, the necessity of concrete climate finance support and bolstered public-private partnerships was underscored. The discussions highlighted that reaching 100% renewable energy is not only technically and economically feasible but also provides unique opportunities for decarbonising other sectors. By catalysing increased financing for the early stages of islands’ strategy development, this transition can enhance energy security, resilience, and climate adaptation, which are critical for the future of island communities.
A dynamic panel discussion featured high-level representatives from Small Island Developing States (SIDS), global leaders in the renewable energy industry, development banks, and other influential institutions. Panellists shared diverse experiences, innovative strategies, and valuable perspectives on advancing sustainable energy solutions, highlighting the need for cross-sector collaboration and inclusive policies to support island nations in their Green transitional efforts.
The event was enriched with the participation of esteemed speakers and guests: Sai S. Navoti – Chief, SIDS Unit, Division for Sustainable Development Goals, UN-DESA; Gurbuz Gonul – Director, Country Engagement and Partnerships, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA); Vanessa Toré – Director Foreign Economic Division, Ministry of Economic Development of Curaçao; Sonia Dunlop – Vice-Chair Global Renewables Alliance & CEO Global Solar Council; Sione Pulotu ‘Akauola – CEO Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster management, Environment, Communications and Climate Change (MEIDECC), Kingdom of Tonga; Jaimes Kolantharaj – Principal Energy Specialist, Energy Sector Office, Sectors Group, Asian development Bank; and Guido Broggi – Head of Business Development and Partnerships, GTI Foundation.
We thank our sponsors: Gewiss, Blue Planet Alliance, Bluenova, BSW German Solar Association, and ReAir.
