18 June 2014: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has published an update of ongoing energy-related projects in the Pacific region and proposed assistance for 2014. The ‘Pacific Energy Update 2014′ highlights ADB’s programmes in the region that promote energy efficiency and renewable energy, increase energy access, encourage sector reform, build capacity and strengthen governance.

The report explains how ADB’s assistance to the region is aiding developing member countries in the Pacific to lift some of their reliance on fossil fuels. For instance, ADB has worked on renewable energy development in Samoa, the Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

In addition, ADB’s programmes have focused on helping populations gain access to a reliable source of affordable energy in order to promote sustainable growth. According to the report, the support ADB provides, in the form of technical assistance, loans and grants, allows governments in the region to take on projects that result in greater energy security for their citizens.

Electricity demand in the Pacific is expected to grow approximately 7% annually until 2030. As electricity generation is forecast to grow by 6.4% annually, ADB is placing great emphasis on improving efficiency, as well as investing in alternative renewable energy sources. ADB Vice-President for Knowledge Management and Sustainable Development Bindu N. Lohani said of the Bank’s focus on energy efficiency, “There is huge potential for saving energy by making buildings, vehicles, machinery and water pumps more energy-efficient to the benefit of consumers and the environment, and the time is right for ADB to do more in this area.” [ADB Press Release] [ADB Publication Webpage] [Publication: Pacific Energy Update 2014]