Suva, Fiji – March 24, 2026
Leaders from across the Pacific came together in Suva for the inaugural Sustainable Energy Industry Association of the Pacific Islands (SEIAPI) Conference, marking a significant step forward in the region’s transition to a 100% renewable energy future.
Attended by policymakers, industry leaders, development partners and regional organisations, the conference created a powerful platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and coordinated action across the Blue Pacific.
The Smart Energy Council (SEC) delegation, led by Senior Adviser Richard Neumann FCPA, joined the event as a sponsor, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to strengthening renewable energy partnerships across the region.
A Shared Purpose Across the Blue Pacific
From the outset, the conference was defined by a strong sense of unity and purpose.
“This wasn’t just another conference – it was a coming together of the Pacific with a shared commitment to accelerate the renewable energy transition,” said Richard Neumann FCPA.
“What stood out was the openness, the collaboration, and the focus on real, practical solutions that can be implemented across island nations.”
The conference outcomes were clear:
- Strengthening SEIAPI’s role as the peak renewable energy body for the Pacific
- Establishing a platform for ongoing regional collaboration, forums, and projects
- Reinforcing the need for coordinated advocacy to unlock investment and accelerate deployment
A Message from Australia
Although unable to attend in person, John Grimes, CEO of the Smart Energy Council, addressed the conference via video, underscoring the importance of regional collaboration.
“The Pacific has the opportunity to lead the world in renewable energy, not just because of necessity, but because of vision,” said Grimes in his address.
“By working together governments, industry, and communities; we can build a 100% renewable Blue Pacific that delivers energy security, economic resilience, and opportunity for generations to come.”
Partnerships Strengthened Across the Region
In the lead-up to the conference, the SEC delegation engaged with key regional stakeholders including the Asian Development Bank, Pacific Power Association, and the South Pacific Community.
These discussions focused on advancing shared priorities, including investment mobilisation, policy coordination, and capacity building across Pacific Island nations.
The delegation included Fiona Dace-Lynn, Lynelle Johnson, Yolanda Dasgupta, Dr Basil Leodoro, Dr Edoardo Santagata, and Rod Scott, reflecting a diverse cross-section of expertise supporting the region’s energy transition.
The visit also marked the release of the Smart Energy Council report:
“Lighting the Way: A Partnership for a 100% Renewable Blue Pacific”, outlining a pathway for deeper collaboration and accelerated progress.
People Powering the Transition
A defining moment of the conference was the celebration of the Pacific’s first all-female solar installation team a powerful example of how the energy transition is transforming communities.
On Waya Island, Fiji, a team of solar professionals and engineering students from the University of the South Pacific delivered a landmark project at Ratu Naivalu Memorial School.
The installation included:
- An 18kW solar PV system
- 40kWh lithium battery storage
- Starlink connectivity across the school
- Smart classroom technology
The project now provides reliable electricity, connectivity, and opportunity to school buildings, hostels, and teachers’ homes demonstrating the tangible impact of renewable energy in remote communities.
“This is what the energy transition is really about,” said Neumann.
“It’s about people creating opportunity, building skills, and delivering lasting change in communities across the Pacific.”
People Powering the Transition
Building a 100% Renewable Blue Pacific
The SEIAPI Conference reinforced a growing regional consensus: the transition to renewable energy is not only achievable, but already underway.
For the Smart Energy Council, supporting initiatives like SEIAPI is central to its mission of connecting industry, strengthening advocacy, and accelerating clean energy deployment.
“What we’ve seen here in Suva is momentum real momentum,” said Grimes.
“The Pacific is not waiting. It is leading. And Australia has an important role to play as a partner in that journey.”
About SEIAPI
The Sustainable Energy Industry Association of the Pacific Islands (SEIAPI) is the peak body representing renewable energy stakeholders across the Pacific, working to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy systems in the region.
About the Smart Energy Council
The Smart Energy Council is Australia’s peak body for the renewable energy industry, committed to driving the transition to a clean energy future across Australia and the broader region.
Media contact: Tim Lamacraft – tim@smartenergy.org.au – 0448 972 192
