Collaboration between NDC Hub and PCREEE Enhances Marshallese Energy Policy for a Sustainable Future

The Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) is set to embark on a transformative journey towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future through a collaborative effort between two SPC-hosted regional centres of excellence - the Regional Pacific NDC Hub and the Pacific Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (PCREEE). This groundbreaking collaboration aims to conduct a coherence review of the RMI National Energy Policy and Action Plan (NEPAP) 2015 – 2025, reflecting the nation's commitment to addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development.

Angeline Reimer, Director of the Energy Planning Division of the Ministry of Resources and Development, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, "From our 2009 National Energy Policy, one of the guiding principles of the RMI Energy Sector is Many Partners, One Team. The collaboration between the NDC Hub and the PCREEE to review, revise and update the 2016 RMI National Energy Policy & Energy Action Plan is one of many examples. Our National Energy Policy is the catalyst for our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) which is illustrated in the RMI Electricity Roadmap. Reviewing and revising our Energy Policy is imperative as it needs to be aligned with the current national objectives including current trends.”

Reimer also acknowledged regional partners PCREEE and the Regional Pacific NDC Hub in assisting RMI in ensuring a robust and effective national energy policy that is relevant for the people of the Marshall Islands."

The RMI NEPAP 2015 – 2025, developed with the technical assistance of the Pacific Community (SPC), serves as a cornerstone for energy planning and development in the Marshall Islands. However, in the face of evolving energy landscapes and emerging challenges, a comprehensive review is imperative to ensure its alignment with current trends, policies, and global frameworks.

The coherence review will assess the effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and institutional feasibility of the NEPAP, alongside its alignment with critical frameworks such as the Marshall Islands Electricity Roadmap, and the Updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Through desktop reviews, stakeholder consultations, and site visits, the review process will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the current energy landscape and the identification of gaps and challenges.

 At a time where the global community is being called to accelerate the transition to a clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy system, we need to ensure that we have the enabling policies and plans in place to empower our communities, the private sector, our NGOs, our women and youth to participate and lead the transition.   

The outcomes of this collaboration are expected to include enhanced awareness of the status and progress of the NEPAP, a clearer understanding of areas requiring attention in its review and strengthened partnerships within the RMI energy sector. Ultimately, this initiative aims to empower the Marshallese people with a robust and forward-looking energy policy that lays the foundation for a sustainable and resilient future.

                                                                                                                                              ENDS