Speech
Sitiveni Rabuka  ·  2026-08-18 07:32

DPM updates parliament on measures to advance sustainable and lower-emission aviation infrastructure

I'd like to thank honorable for the question. As we know, Fiji is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Therefore, while aviation remains essential to our economy, government is committed to ensuring that future aviation growth is accompanied by investments that improve sustainability, strengthen resilience, and reduce emissions wherever possible. This commitment is reflected in the Civil Aviation Master Plan. I'd like the members to pick one of this and get familiar uh with with the Civil Aviation Master Plan. Yes, Speaker, sir. The commitment is reflected in the Master Plan 2026-2031, Fiji's State Action Plan on CO2 emissions reduction from international aviation, Fiji's nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement, and our ongoing engagement with the International Civil Aviation Organization or ICAO. Yes, Speaker, sir. Fiji's State Action Plan was developed in accordance with ICAO Assembly Resolution A41- 22, and outlines the practical measures that Fiji is implementing to reduce carbon emissions from international aviation and contribute towards ICAO's long-term aspirational goal of net zero aviation emissions by 2050. The Action Plan identifies a range of measures, including fleet modernization, improved air traffic management, airport energy efficiency, sustainable aviation fuels, and renewable energy infrastructure. One of the most significant projects currently underway is the Nadi Airport Solar Farm. Earlier this year, Fiji Airports awarded a contract to CBS Power Solutions Fiji Limited for the development of a 3.25 MW solar power system at Nadi International Airport and construction officially commence in July 2026. The project will become the largest airport-based solar development in Fiji and one of the most significant renewable energy investments undertaken within the Pacific aviation sector. The solar farm is being developed to provide clean renewable electricity for Nadi's principal international gateway. Nadi International Airport currently consumes approximately 2.5 MW of electricity. When completed, the solar farm will generate sufficient renewable energy to meet current airport demand thereby sustainably reducing reliance on conventional electricity sources while strengthening operational resilience and long-term energy security. Importantly the project has been designed with future growth in mind. Fiji Airports has advised that approximately 25% surplus generated capacity will be available during peak periods creating opportunities to support future airport development and contribute excess electricity back to the national grid. Moreover a second phase is being assessed which could expand production capacity to between 8 and 10 MW potentially supported by battery energy storage systems. Mr. Speaker, the significance of this project extends beyond electricity generation. It strengthens the resilience of a critical national asset that serves as Fiji's primary international gateway. Every year, hundreds of visitors thousands of visitors and substantial volumes of international trade pass through Nadi International Airport. Ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply for airport operation is therefore a matter of national importance. The project will directly contributes to the reduction of aviation-related carbon emissions. Fiji's State Action Plan specifically identifies the installation of a solar farm at Nadi Airport as a mitigation measure capable of supporting emissions reductions and advancing Fiji's broader sustainability objectives. The plan identifies the airport renewable energy projects as an important component of Fiji's pathway towards net-zero aviation emissions in line with international climate commitments. Mr. Speaker, sir, the solar farm forms part of a wider package of sustainability measures being implemented across the aviation sector. The State Action Plan records several ongoing initiatives being undertaken by Fiji Airports and Fiji Airways to reduce emissions and improve efficiency. This include investments in in more fuel-efficient aircrafts, improvements to air traffic management procedures, performance-based navigation systems, enhanced surveillance technologies, replacement of traditional airport lighting with energy-efficient LED systems, reduction in airport electrical demand and the introduction of cleaner operational practices. On the airline side, Fiji Airways has progressively modernized its fleet through the introduction of Airbus A350 and Boeing 737 MAX, both of which deliver substantial fuel efficiency improvements compared with previous generation aircraft. The airline has also implemented a range of operational measures to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, including fuel monitoring systems, continuous descent operations, reduced contingency fuel requirements, and other operational efficiency measures. Government is also supporting work on sustainable aviation fuels. Fiji's State Action Plan includes ongoing assessment of locally produced sustainable aviation fuel derived from sugar sugarcane based feed stocks. This demonstrates the breadth of Fiji's approach to aviation decarbonization and provides opportunities to create new economic activities while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. Mr. Speaker, sir, these investments are fully aligned with the Civil Aviation Master Plan 2026-2031. The Master Plan recognizes that future airports must be safe, resilient, technologically advanced, and environmentally sustainable. Sustainable infrastructure is no longer an optional consideration. It is central to maintaining competitiveness, reducing operating costs, enhancing resilience to climate-related events, and meeting international expectations regarding environmental performance. In the city of Nadi International Airport Airport Solar Farm, therefore, deliver multiple benefits simultaneously. It strengthens energy security, reduces emissions, supports climate resilience, and improves operational reliability, and contributes to long-term economic sustainability. Mr. Speaker, sir, Fiji Airports has also established itself as a regional leader in airport sustainability. Nadi International Airport became the first and only international airport in the Pacific to achieve level four transformation status under Airports Council International's Airport Carbon Accreditation Program, demonstrating Fiji's commitment to international best practice in carbon management and emissions reduction. As we continue development of the aviation sector, government remains committed to balancing growth with sustainability. We'll continue working closely with Fiji Airports, Fiji Airways, ICAO, development partners, and industry stakeholders to ensure that Fiji remains a leader in sustainable aviation within the Pacific region. Mr. Speaker, sir, projects such as the Nadi International Airport Solar Farm demonstrate that Fiji is translating policy commitments into tangible action. This will bring economic development, investment growth, and environmental responsibility can advance together, delivering benefits for travelers, businesses, tourism operators, and future generations of Fijians. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, sir.