The Role of High-Income Households and Tourism in Advancing Energy Affordability and Financial Inclusion for Small Islands

Suryawan, I Wayan Koko (Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Infrastructure Planning, Universitas Pertamina)

International Journal of Marine Engineering Innovation and Research
Vol 10, No 1 (2025)

Energy affordability and financial inclusion remain critical challenges for small island communities, where reliance on imported fossil fuels and high energy costs disproportionately impact low-income households. At the same time, high-income households and the growing tourism sector on these islands hold significant financial capacity to drive equitable energy transitions. This perspective explores the role of high-income stakeholders and tourism operators in promoting energy affordability through retribution mechanisms, adaptive service assets, and flexible organizational models. By leveraging financial resources and investing in clean energy solutions, high-income households and tourism businesses can contribute to a sustainable energy future that benefits all members of the community, bridging the gap between economic growth, energy equity, and environmental sustainability.