September 12, 2024

Nuku’alofa, Tonga – 12 September 2024
A dynamic three-day Youth Capacity Building Workshop on Renewable Energy and Climate Finance concluded today in Nuku’alofa, bringing together 50 plus youth representative from various agencies and communities to engage in climate action, renewable energy solutions, and climate finance opportunities. This marked a significant milestone in Tonga’s ongoing efforts to strengthen youth involvement in the country’s climate agenda.

The workshop was organized by the Department of Climate Change with the support of the Department of Energy under the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC). Key partners, including the NDC Partnership, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Pacific Community (SPC), Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), and Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN) has financially support and co-organized this event. Their expertise provided participants with valuable insights into sustainable energy transitions, access to climate finance, and youth advocacy in global climate solutions.

The newly appointed Director for the Department of Energy, Mrs. ‘Emeline Laumanu, delivered a powerful message in her opening remarks, stating:
“This workshop is about more than just imparting knowledge. It’s about empowering our youth to be champions of renewable energy and climate action. We are building a generation of leaders who will drive Tonga’s resilience and contribute to global climate goals.”

Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in group discussions, developing project proposals on climate resilience and renewable energy. These collaborative exercises not only fostered teamwork but also allowed the youth to envision practical climate projects that could contribute to Tonga’s climate commitments. Sessions led by regional and international climate experts covered essential topics such as renewable energy integration in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), access to climate finance mechanisms, and the role of youth as agents of change in the fight against climate change. Participants also visited the Popua Power Station Solar PV and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in ‘Anana, to experience and be aware of Tonga’s efforts to shift towards sustainable energy solutions and reduce its carbon footprint.

During the closing remarks on the last day, Ms. Oliva Philpott the 1^st Secretary Development from the New Zealand High Commission Office in Tonga expressed a message to the youth, stating:

 “it’s really important to recognize the role that you all play alongside policymakers and push them to make sure that policy and services are much more places with all voices, in fact, works in MEIDECC can cross the whole range of activities, from Disaster Risk Reduction to cybersecurity, renewable energy, conservation, and climate change.”

Ms. Philpott’s words underscored the importance of youth engagement and their ability to shape the future by advocating for inclusive and forward-thinking policies.

This workshop builds on the success of the annual Youth Climate Change Talanoa series initiated in 2021. Over the past three years, these events have created platforms for youth to take an active role in climate discussions and initiatives. The transition from Talanoa (dialogue) to action is a central theme of this ongoing engagement. The 2024 workshop shifts the focus toward building capacity in renewable energy and accessing climate finance—two critical areas that will help Tongan youth spearhead innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to funding opportunities, the workshop ensures that young Tongan leaders are equipped with the skills and resources necessary to drive climate projects in their communities.

Tonga’s Second Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), submitted in 2020, sets out ambitious targets, including the achievement of 70% renewable energy by 2030 and the planting of one million trees by 2023. Young Tongans played an essential role in achieving—and exceeding—this reforestation target, demonstrating the pivotal role that youth can play in implementing national climate objectives. The success of the tree-planting initiative highlights the power of youth engagement in addressing climate challenges and contributing to Tonga’s broader development goals.

As Tonga continues to enhance its climate resilience, the active participation of youth remains a critical factor in ensuring sustainable outcomes. The Youth Capacity Building Workshop on Renewable Energy and Climate Finance not only strengthens the country’s human capital but also fosters a new generation of climate-conscious leaders committed to securing a resilient future for Tonga. The success of this event demonstrates Tonga’s commitment to equipping its youth with the tools needed to address the climate crisis and reinforces the belief that the solutions to global climate challenges will come from empowered local leaders.

ENDS