Biofuel usage within the region presents a complex and demanding scenario. While significant biofuel production is observed in some jurisdictions, its utilization varies across the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs). In most PICTs, biofuels find their primary application in households, although in Fiji, they are also employed in manufacturing, and some regions utilize them for electricity generation.
Household biofuel consumption tends to be more pronounced in PICTs with a higher percentage of rural inhabitants, owing to traditional cooking methods and, in certain climates, heating practices. Furthermore, PICTs with limited access to electricity tend to rely more heavily on biofuels. It’s important to note that the use of biomass for household purposes can give rise to significant health and environmental concerns.
Given that current biomass use is predominantly confined to remote communities, there are limited opportunities for its utilization in electricity generation or biofuel production due to a lack of infrastructure and the high costs associated with transportation. The substantial rural population in these areas also has noteworthy implications for future energy demands and the potential for expanding renewable energy sources.
