AEEP Energy Talks: Empowering Africa: Accelerating Energy Efficiency for Sustainable Development
08 May 2024, 11:00 – 13:00 (CET); 12:00-14:00 (EAT)
The 14th AEEP Energy Talks on 08 May 2024 will delve into “Empowering Africa: Accelerating Energy Efficiency for Sustainable Development”. The online event will spotlight the role of energy efficiency to meet Africa’s energy needs, and as an essential component of SDG7 and COP28’s Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency pledge.
Energy efficiency, now termed the “first fuel,” is essential for reducing demand, enhancing energy security, and mitigating the effects of price volatility. By cutting energy bills, it boosts affordability, spurs industrial growth, and aids economic development. Investing in it aids climate goals, creates jobs, and can mitigate Africa’s rising energy demand, fostering sustainability and reducing strain on infrastructure.
The African Energy Commission (AFREC) is actively addressing the urgent need for energy efficiency through the African Energy Efficiency Strategy and Action Plan (AfEES). The initiative will accelerate the adoption of energy efficiency paradigms across six key sectors: industry, electricity supply, appliances and devices (including clean cooking solutions), buildings, transportation and agriculture. AFREC is also developing the African Energy Efficiency Programme in collaboration with U4E, to transform the continent’s energy market towards higher energy efficiency appliances.
Similarly, The EU’s Energy Efficiency Directive is driving Europe’s energy transition and climate goals. Improved upon in 2021 under the REPowerEU plan, it responds to the energy crisis sparked by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, aiming to decrease the EU’s reliance on Russian fossil fuel imports.
The 14th AEEP Energy Talks we will explore the current energy efficiency landscape of Africa. Additionally, we will hear experiences from Europe on how to implement energy efficiency measures and explore the role of deepened Africa – Europe collaboration for innovative energy efficiency solutions.
The online event will feature opening remarks by Dr. Kamugisha Kazaura, Director of Infrastructure & Energy, African Union Commission, and a representative from DG INTPA F1 Climate Change and Sustainable Energy, European Commission. Mr Rashid Ali Abdallah, Executive Director, African Energy Commission (AFREC) will give a keynote speech where he will introduce AFREC’s work on energy efficiency.
Speakers in the panel discussion include:
– IEA (tbc)
– DG ENER, EC (tbc)
– Mr Yagouba Traore, Head of Policy Planning Strategy Support, African Energy Commission (AFREC)
– Dr Maged Mahmoud, Technical Director, Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (RCREEE)
– Mr Paul Kellett, Programme Manager, United for Efficiency (U4E), Energy and Climate Branch, Industry and Economy Division
The event will in English and moderated by the AEEP Team.
Interested in joining? Please subscribe here to receive further information.
By registering for this webinar, I agree to subscribe and receive updates from the AEEP.
For detailed instructions on how to register, click here.
Download the full draft agenda here.
Read more about the African Union’s work with energy efficiency: https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20230922/energy-efficiency-takes-center-stage-africa-climate-summit-2023
