The China-Aided Wind Farm Project: A Milestone in Green Cooperation Between China and Tonga
By H.E. Mr. Liu Weimin
Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Tonga
A Historic Commissioning Ceremony
On 14th July, the China-aided Wind Farm Project was officially commissioned. The gracious presence of His Majesty King Tupou VI lent great significance to the ceremony. More than just infrastructure, this project symbolizes a new milestone in the enduring partnership between China and Tonga in the field of green energy and sustainable development. It also stands as a powerful testament to China’s unwavering commitment to building a green and resilient future.
Paving the Way for Tonga’s Green Future
The wind farm comprises:
- Three 750-kilowatt wind turbines
- A 110-kilovolt switch station
- Supporting transmission infrastructure
It is now supplying clean electricity to Tonga’s national grid. To date, the project has generated over 2.8 million kilowatt-hours of electricity — equivalent to approximately 3.8% of Tonga’s annual power supply, or 25% of its renewable energy output.
This contribution helps alleviate Tonga’s longstanding energy shortages and plays a critical role in achieving the Tonga Energy Road Map:
- 70% renewable energy by 2030
- 100% by 2035
This is a concrete example of win-win cooperation — where clean energy, resilience, and better livelihoods go hand in hand.
China’s Global Commitment to Green Development
China is the world’s largest producer of renewable energy and has made tremendous progress in green development. By the end of 2024:
- China’s installed renewable energy capacity reached 1,889 gigawatts,
- Representing over 40% of the global total.
China has also pledged to:
- Peak carbon emissions by 2030,
- Achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
These are not mere targets — they represent China’s steadfast resolve to build a cleaner, greener planet for all.
A Shared Vision with the Pacific
In the Pacific region, China is committed to helping Small Island Developing States (SIDS) transition to renewable energy and climate resilience. This partnership is rooted in mutual respect and shared goals.
Through the South-South Cooperation Initiative on Climate Change, China has mobilized over:
¥177 billion yuan (~58 billion Paʻanga)
To support climate action and development in the Global South.
New Chapter: China-Pacific Island Climate Cooperation
At the Third China–Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (May 28–29, 2025), China launched a new initiative to deepen climate cooperation. Key commitments included:
- USD 2 million in additional funding
- Joint action in:
- Clean energy
- Sustainable agriculture and fisheries
- Marine conservation
- Low-carbon infrastructure and tourism
- Disaster prevention and resilience
Over the next three years, China will implement 100 “small yet smart” grassroots projects across Pacific Island nations — empowering local communities to adapt and thrive in the face of climate change.
Tonga’s Climate Leadership
Tonga has shown remarkable leadership in advancing clean energy and tackling climate change. Its proactive role in the Paris Agreement and regional bodies like the Pacific Islands Forum demonstrates its global responsibility and sets an example for others.
Conclusion: A Shared, Sustainable Future
The China-aided Wind Farm Project is more than just an energy initiative. It is a symbol of unity, mutual support, and what can be achieved when countries collaborate for the greater good.
As China continues to deepen its ties with Tonga and other Pacific Island countries, our shared mission remains clear:
To use green energy to drive inclusive development, build resilience, and protect our planet for future generations.
China’s green journey is defined by innovation, cooperation, and action. We stand ready to walk this path together — proving that a low-carbon, sustainable future is not just an aspiration, but a reality we can build together.
Together, we can harness the power of green energy
to build a brighter, more resilient world for all.
