Charging Infrastructure and E-Mobility in the Pacific Islands: Stakeholders Explore Pathways Towards Sustainable Transport

On 16 June 2026, the German-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce and Renewables Academy (RENAC) AG hosted a virtual conference on “Charging Infrastructure and E-Mobility in the Pacific Islands (Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa & Tonga)” as part of the German Energy Solutions Initiative of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE). The event formed part of a digital business trip and brought together representatives from government, industry, development finance institutions and the energy sector to discuss future opportunities for sustainable mobility across the Pacific region. 

Opening remarks highlighted the growing importance of clean transport solutions for Pacific Island countries as they pursue broader energy transition and decarbonisation goals. Ambassador Dr Andreas Prothmann of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Suva shared regional perspectives on the energy transition and highlighted opportunities for international cooperation across the Pacific. Laura Scharlach of RENAC AG introduced the German Energy Solutions Initiative and its role in supporting international knowledge exchange and business cooperation in the energy sector. Meanwhile, Florian Widdel of the German Renewable Energy Federation (BEE) shared lessons from Germany’s energy transition, focusing on charging infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, grid integration and the interaction between renewable energy and electric mobility. 

A key message throughout the conference was that electric mobility should be considered as part of a broader energy system. Speakers highlighted that the environmental and economic benefits of electric vehicles are maximised when charging infrastructure is powered by renewable energy sources. For Pacific Island countries, which often rely heavily on imported diesel and gasoline, combining solar power, battery storage and e-mobility offers a promising pathway towards greater energy independence, resilience and lower operating costs.  

The seven German companies participating in the programme presented a diverse range of technologies and services, including solar energy systems, battery storage solutions, charging infrastructure, energy consulting, grid-related expertise, wind energy applications and technical testing services. Several presentations showcased practical examples of renewable-powered mobility solutions and off-grid applications that could be adapted to island environments and remote communities.  

The conference also addressed financing opportunities for energy and mobility projects in the Pacific. Nadège Hopmann from the European Investment Bank (EIB) introduced the bank’s activities in the region and outlined financing instruments available for renewable energy, climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure projects. Speakers emphasised that successful implementation requires not only suitable technologies but also supportive policy frameworks, long-term investment and strong collaboration between public and private stakeholders.  

Overall, the event demonstrated the significant potential of integrating renewable energy and electric mobility across Pacific Island countries. By combining clean power generation, battery storage and sustainable transport solutions, island nations can reduce their reliance on imported fuels while strengthening energy security and supporting economic development. The conference was complemented by a series of tailored B2B meetings between the participating German companies and regional stakeholders, creating opportunities for future partnerships and project development across the Pacific.