MMERE and UNDP discusses pathway for better energy sector with key stakeholders

-

The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Friday 14 November 2025 organized a panel discussion on pathways towards better electric power availability, affordability and sustainability in Solomon Islands.

The event featured remarks by the Permanent Secretary of MMERE, Dr Chris Vehe, and UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, Raluca Eddon followed by discussions with a diverse group of stakeholders representing Government ministries, embassies, private sector, State-owned Enterprises (SOEs), the civil society, churches and the media.

The panel discussion provided a platform for major sectors involved in electricity planning, Government policymakers, Solomon Power, present and prospective consumers and media.

The panel discussion provided a platform for major sectors involved in electricity planning, Government policymakers, Solomon Power, present and prospective consumers and media to share thought and conversations around Solomon Islands, about what a stronger energy sector can do for the country and how, together, all stakeholders can collaborate to deliver this for all Solomon Islanders.

The panelists were Dr Chris Vehe, Mrs Deliliah Homelo, Chief Executive Officer of Solomon Power, Ms Qila Tuhanuku, Chairlady, Manufacturing Working Group of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), Mr Robert Iroga, Publisher of Solomon Business Magazine representing the media and Mr Casper Fa’asala, Chief Executive Officer of Disabled People Association of Solomon Islands (DPASI) representing the civil society.

Dr Chris Vehe emphasized that it is important and timely to start talking about energy seriously, and to raise the visibility of the sector, stating: “As per the statement by the Honourable Prime Minister at the National Energy Summit last year (2024), energy is very crucial as a driver of any economic development aspirations for Solomon Islands.”

The Permanent Secretary highlighted that one of the challenges in having an improved energy sector is our legislative framework that is not really compactable to enable us to be able to control the sector.

“We need to have an energy sector that encourages economic development, that promotes environmental protection, that also supports health and education and disaster preparedness.

“I encourage us all to continue to put our heads together in coming up with better policy directions for our leaders and to elevate the discussions such as this that pertains to the energy sector,” he said.

Ms Raluca Eddon reaffirmed UNDP’s strong commitment to working with the MMERE to position energy as an essential public service and also as a transformative engine for development.

“The panel marks the first time UNDP is partnering with the MMERE for a panel discussion to discuss electricity – and the feedback we have received from Solomon Islanders on access to electricity as an enabling condition for development.

“The panel discussion builds on and continues the dialogue from the 2024 National Energy Summit in Honiara, which highlighted the need for accessible, affordable and sustainable clean energy. It reflects a joint commitment to exploring solutions and shaping a sustainable energy future for all Solomon Islanders,” she said.

The panel discussion is part of a joint MMERE-UNDP campaign - aimed at informing the government’s energy planning process. With the intention to spark a national dialogue around electricity reform, drawing attention to ways energy access shapes people’s lives and what can be done to improve it.

Over the past couple of months, MMERE and UNDP have been surveying Solomon Islanders about their energy challenges, needs and ambitions. This survey will continue until early December and Solomon Islanders with an interest in the future of the country’s electricity network are encouraged to participate so they can have a say in this vital part of the country’s development.

The results of the survey will give energy planners an accurate picture ever gained in Solomon Islands of what the people need and want from the planning process.

You can access the survey via this link https://forms.office.com/e/ee2YtMz1hm    

Media Release | UNDP

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Benjamin Afuga’s Journey as a Social Media Influencer

-
Image
Benjamin Afuga, a digital activist and community engagement leader in Honiara, Solomon Islands, inspires young people to leverage social media for positive change. As the founder and chief administrator of the Yumi Toktok Forum, Afuga’s journey from a passionate young man to a leading social media influencer showcases the potential for individuals to shape their communities using digital platforms. Benjamin Afuga, a digital activist and community engagement leader in the  Solomon Islands Afuga’s early life was deeply rooted in the rich culture and supportive community of the Solomon Islands. Influenced by the teachings of his parents, the church, family, friends, and the local community, he developed a passion for humanity and community engagement that set the stage for his future endeavors. “My journey into social media began with a desire to promote and share our wealth, unique culture, and voice with a wider audience. I realized the power of social media as a tool for posit...
Read more

Wendy Kealau: Bringing Global Insights Home from China’s E-Commerce Frontier

-
Image
For Wendy Kealau, a young Solomon Islands entrepreneur and the proud owner of Wendy’s Delicacy’s catering business, attending an international e-commerce seminar in Qingdao, China, was more than just a professional trip, it was a transformative journey that expanded her vision for local entrepreneurship. As a financial member of the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI), Wendy has been steadily carving out a name for herself in the local business scene. But her recent trip to China opened her eyes to new possibilities and offered powerful lessons in innovation, resilience, and the power of global thinking. “I wanted to understand how one of the world’s largest economies fosters innovation, scales businesses, and builds resilient infrastructure,” Wendy explained. “Being surrounded by entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders from all over the globe gave me a broader perspective on what’s possible for us here at home.” A Global View, A Local Heart Wendy’s exposure to Ch...
Read more

๐Ÿญ๐Ÿฏ ๐—ฌ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ป๐—ด ๐—˜๐—ป๐˜๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐˜‚๐—ฟ๐˜€ ๐—˜๐—ป๐—ต๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—–๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—ฆ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—ฆ๐—ธ๐—ถ๐—น๐—น๐˜€ ๐˜„๐—ถ๐˜๐—ต ๐—”๐—ฃ๐—ง๐—–

-
Image
Thirteen young entrepreneurs from the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) have strengthened their business and customer service skills after completing a Collaborative Customer Care course with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC). The training, facilitated by APTC and organized by YECSI, aimed to equip young business owners with essential customer service strategies. Nine young women business owners were among the 13 participants, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. The two-day intensive training gave participants valuable insights into effective communication techniques, conflict resolution, and customer loyalty strategies—all crucial for delivering high-quality service and enhancing customer satisfaction. Wendy Kealau, owner of Ezen’s Catering, Fashion, Entertainment, and Tiamaria Pub (Red Door), highlighted the vital role YECSI plays in supporting young entrepreneurs and how the training has positively impacted parti...
Read more