The REnew Pacific delegation returned home after an extraordinary week at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, where Pacific-led energy solutions took centre stage across high-profile events, panel discussions, and partner engagements.

The conference reinforced the region’s leadership in shaping practical, community-driven approaches to climate resilience and clean energy.

What is REnew Pacific?

REnew Pacific is Australia’s AUD $75 million investment in off-grid renewable energy for remote and rural communities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste. Announced at COP29 by Australia’s Minister for Climate Change, the Hon Chris Bowen, the program is delivered by Palladium and through the Pacific Climate Infrastructure Financing Partnership (PCIFP)—a AUD $350 million initiative under the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP).

The programme builds on earlier Business Partnerships Platform pilots and is already delivering tangible results: reliable solar power for schools, clinics, and community facilities that have long operated without safe and affordable electricity. In its first year, REnew Pacific has demonstrated how clean energy can transform essential services in some of the world’s most climate-vulnerable locations.

“REnew Pacific is now in its implementation phase, and we have great stories to tell,” noted Mohammed Angawi, Team Leader, REnew Pacific. “These are projects and programmes that are running as we speak, supported by the Pacific Climate Infrastructure Financing Partnership. It’s a privilege to see the impact firsthand.”

From standing-room-only crowds at the Australian Pavilion to technical exchanges at the Disaster Resilient Infrastructure Pavilion, the delegation highlighted how communities across the Pacific and Timor-Leste are driving an inclusive clean energy transition. These conversations underscored the importance of partnerships grounded in local knowledge and stewardship.

Powering Climate Resilience Across the Blue Pacific

One of the most anticipated sessions at the Australian Pavilion spotlighted community-led solar solutions in Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea. Speakers included Ambassador for Climate Change Will Nankervis, REnew Pacific Team Leader Mohammed Angawi, Dr Basil Leodoro from Respond Global’s HELPR-1 project, Tapera Bird from Superfly, and Dr Genevieve Nelson from the Kokoda Track Foundation.

The discussion showcased innovations such as hybrid solar systems, whole-of-village mini-grids, and the HELPR-1 medical vessel—demonstrating how reliable clean energy is strengthening health, education, and community services in remote islands.

“It’s a great honour to be here with our guests and partners to discuss resilience in the Pacific and how it relates to infrastructure. These projects are not theoretical—they are happening now and making a real difference,” noted Angawi in his opening remarks.

Shared Futures: Building Climate and Energy Partnerships

Another highlight was a high-level dialogue hosted by Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. Minister Chris Bowen joined Tuvalu’s Hon Dr Maina Talia, the Marshall Islands’ Hon Bremity Lakjohn, Ambassador Will Nankervis, Coral Pasisi from the Pacific Community, and other leaders to explore what genuine partnership looks like in advancing climate and energy resilience.

Dr Basil Leodoro contributed insights from Vanuatu’s remote islands, emphasising the role of community-led approaches in disaster preparedness and recovery.

Pacific Priorities for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure

At the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure Pavilion, REnew Pacific chaired a session on integrating clean energy into climate-resilient infrastructure. Speakers shared practical examples from health, education, transport, and coastal protection projects, illustrating how renewable energy is enabling infrastructure that is culturally grounded and built to last.

The discussion featured DFAT’s Emily Luck alongside regional experts, reinforcing that resilience is not just about technology—it’s about empowering communities to lead.

“The common thread across these sessions is partnership. These projects are supported by AIFFP and delivered with local leadership. That’s what makes them sustainable and impactful,” Angawi added.

Momentum and Outcomes from COP30

Throughout COP30, films showcasing REnew Pacific and Business Partnerships Platform projects played across the Australian Pavilion, helping share Pacific stories with a global audience.

The outcomes for the region from COP30 are clear:
• Stronger partnerships between Pacific governments, communities, and development partners.
• Commitment to scaling renewable energy solutions that deliver health, education, and economic benefits.
• Recognition of Pacific leadership in shaping inclusive, locally driven climate strategies.

As the region faces increasing climate risks, REnew Pacific’s progress underscores the essential role of clean, reliable power in building resilience. The momentum built in Belém will carry forward as governments and communities continue driving a cleaner, more sustainable future.

“We’re proud to be part of this journey. The Pacific is leading with practical solutions, and REnew Pacific will continue to support that leadership as we move into the next phase,” closed Angawi