Browne Pursues Renewable Energy Partnerships and Long-Term EV Programme in Australia

Prime Minister Gaston Browne is pursuing partnerships in Australia to support renewable energy development and expand electric transportation in Antigua and Barbuda beyond next month’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Browne’s bilateral engagements, held alongside the Global Citizen NOW Summit in Perth, include discussions with Western Australian government officials, renewable energy executives and philanthropic organisations.

On Monday, he met Western Australia’s Premier Roger Cook and Minister for Energy and Decarbonisation Amber-Jade Sanderson to discuss renewable energy expansion, energy security and clean industries.

During the meeting, Browne outlined a proposed Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Renewable Islands Initiative, aimed at reducing participating countries’ dependence on imported fossil fuels through regional cooperation and investment in renewable technologies.

The talks explored potential technical assistance in remote energy systems, energy planning, workforce training and project implementation. They also examined opportunities for continued cooperation ahead of CHOGM and COP31.

Browne’s programme also includes engagements with Fortescue Chairman and Minderoo Foundation founder Dr Andrew Forrest, and Fortescue Metals Chief Executive Officer Dino Otranto.

Discussions with the organisations have explored whether they could provide technical expertise, financing or other support for the proposed regional initiative, alongside cooperation on climate resilience and sustainable transportation.

A further meeting is scheduled with Octopus Energy Generation Chief Executive Officer Zoisa North-Bond to review the company’s partnership with Antigua and Barbuda, including electric vehicles intended to support transportation during CHOGM.

Some of the vehicles have already arrived in the country, according to the government.

Browne is expected to discuss how the fleet could support a longer-term national electric mobility programme after the November 1–4 meeting. Charging infrastructure, maintenance, vehicle deployment, operating requirements and possible financing arrangements are among the issues on the agenda.

The government wants the initiative to leave a lasting transportation legacy, with potential support from Octopus Energy, Fortescue, Minderoo and other international partners.

The Prime Minister is also promoting investment opportunities ahead of CHOGM through a planned “Invest Antigua and Barbuda” initiative intended to attract interest in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and other priority sectors.

His bilateral programme included a meeting with former Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, whose country hosted the previous CHOGM.

The two discussed challenges facing Caribbean and Pacific island nations, Samoa’s hosting experience and lessons that could assist Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations. Their discussions also addressed how the Commonwealth could deliver greater benefits for vulnerable communities and young people.

The engagements form part of the government’s effort to turn international relationships into practical support for energy security, climate resilience, employment and economic development.