Ditching diesel could save Pacific nations almost $1b

A study has analysed fuel imports for power plants, generators, boats and cars in Pacific countries. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

Australia's Pacific neighbours could save almost $1 billion a year by swapping fossil fuel imports for renewable energy - and cover the cost of the transition in just over a decade.

UNSW Sydney released the findings on Tuesday after analysing fossil fuel costs in 21 Pacific countries, from American Samoa to Vanuatu.