In a joint statement, IRENA and UNWTO said that they intend to encourage investment in cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions in order to abate the carbon-emitting fossil fuel reliance in islands.
Due to dependency on costly imported diesel fuel, islands are burdened by high energy costs.
More than 90% of energy consumption by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is addressed through oil imports, which represent up to 20% of their annual imports, despite efforts to improve energy efficiency.
Hotels can cut operating costs with renewable options for water heating, air conditioning and electricity generation.
IRENA director-general Adnan Amin said: "Investment by island hotels is vital to demonstrating the business case for renewable energy, which is essential to addressing the burden of costly fossil fuels that inhibits islands’ economic and social development."
The team also urges hotels to document the energy savings and cost reductions from these applications as well as to share the information through the Global Renewable Energy Islands Network (GREIN).
The statement also suggests greater investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy to build a more sustainable, competitive and resilient tourism sector worldwide, especially in islands.
UNWTO secretary-general Taleb Rifai said: "The synergy of tourism and renewable energy represents a powerful force that will pave the way for win-win solutions in driving the sustainable agenda of islands forward."
