Yaren, Nauru: Across Nauru, access to cleaner and more reliable energy enabled by energy policies, capacity building, and e-mobility solutions is opening new possibilities for families and communities. These changes are supporting a more secure and resilient future where communities are better equipped to thrive.

These gains are the result of the Supporting Mainstreamed Achievement of Roadmap Targets on Energy in Nauru (SMARTEN) project, which marked a key milestone with its final project board meeting last month.

Implemented by the Government of Nauru through the Department of Climate Change and National Resilience (DCCNR), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funding from the Global Environment Facility, the five-year project has helped the country take practical steps toward a cleaner and more secure energy system.

Over its implementation, SMARTEN supported the introduction of renewable energy and energy-efficient solutions suited to Nauru’s context. These efforts are helping reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, lower energy costs over time, and strengthen energy security for communities.

The project also contributed to strengthening national policies and planning frameworks, laying the groundwork for scaling up clean energy investments in the years ahead.

UNDP Pacific Office Deputy Resident Representative for the North Pacific, Gulbahor Nematova, highlighted the importance of national leadership in achieving these results:

“Strong national leadership and ownership were central to the project’s success. The commitment of the Government of Nauru, particularly the DCCNR, shows how national priorities can be translated into tangible results that benefit people and communities.”

A key achievement of the project was the delivery of three demonstration initiatives showcasing renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies tailored to Nauru’s needs. These practical examples provide a foundation for expanding similar solutions nationwide.

In parallel, the project supported the development and review of key national energy policies, which are now awaiting parliamentary adoption. These policies will help guide future investments and accelerate Nauru’s transition to sustainable energy.

Secretary Reagan Moses reflected on the value of collaboration throughout the project:

“As we close, we do so with a clear sense of the progress we have made together and the real value this work has created. While the journey has not been without challenges, strong coordination, open communication and shared commitment have allowed us to stay on track. The experience and lessons from this project put us in a strong position to deliver future initiatives that benefit our communities.”

Implemented from 2021 to 2026, the SMARTEN project has supported Nauru in advancing practical, locally driven energy solutions that contribute to sustainable development and climate action.

Looking ahead, the progress achieved through SMARTEN offers a strong foundation for the future. With continued national leadership and partnerships, Nauru is well positioned to expand clean energy solutions that improve daily life, strengthen resilience, and create new opportunities for communities across the country.

For more information please contact:

Nicholas Turner | Communications, Advocacy and Partnerships Specialist | nicholas.turner@undp.org