The outdoor event featured local non-government organizations and businesses demonstrating energy-saving devices such as solar panels for the homes as well as energy-efficient lighting and air-conditioning systems.
Marshalls President Litokwa Tomeing and other speakers urged Marshallese to conserve energy at home and at work by offering some practical tips such as switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs and reducing unnecessary use of air conditioners and lights.
“The Republic of the Marshall Islands has recently experienced sharp increases in fuel prices which resulted in high inflation, power shortages, and pressure on government budgets,” said Kiyoshi Nakamitsu, ADB desk officer for the RMI.
RMI, like many Pacific island nations, experienced sharp increases in fuel prices in 2008 which have had severe economic and social impact. The energy fair and other planned activities are part of ADB’s assistance to Pacific countries in response to these economic shocks.
The fair follows an energy policy forum held last month in Majuro during which the Majuro Energy Declaration 2009 was signed by ADB and leaders from the RMI government, civil society, and the private sector. During the forum, the leaders proposed and discussed policies to promote energy efficiency and sustainability for the nation.
“The energy fair represents one step in our broader strategy to promote energy efficiency and greater energy security for the people of the Marshall Islands,” said Tommy Kijiner Jr., secretary of resources and development.
RMI joined the ADB in 1990 and, since then, ADB has approved 12 loans for the country amounting to more than $78.13 million, and 46 technical assistance grants amounting to $18.76 million.
ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in the Asia and Pacific region through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members — 48 from the region.
