Kenya is set to be the host of the 9th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency. This is a significant event that brings together global leaders to collaborate on energy efficiency and address the ongoing energy crisis. It emphasizes the critical role of energy efficiency in the energy transition and its potential to drive socio-economic development, particularly in developing countries.
The event slated for May 21–23, 2024, is being organized by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Government of Kenya and it will be held in Nairobi County. The 9th Global Conference marks the first time this event will be held in Africa. This highlights the growing momentum for enhanced energy efficiency action in the region.
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Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency
The previous conference took place in Versailles, France, in June and attracted over 600 delegates representing 90 countries. It resulted in the adoption of the Versailles Statement, a commitment from 46 governments to work towards doubling global energy efficiency progress by 2030.
The conference will focus on high-level discussions regarding policies and measures to mitigate the ongoing impacts of the global energy crisis. It is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by the energy crisis.
The conference is strategically scheduled in anticipation of the COP28 Climate Change Conference in Dubai, emphasizing the interconnectedness of energy efficiency with global efforts to combat climate change.
Dr. Fatih Birol, the Executive Director of the IEA, stressed the critical role of energy efficiency in the energy transition. He highlighted its potential to generate employment, foster industrial growth, enhance energy security, and provide affordable, modern energy services to populations, particularly in emerging and developing economies. Dr. Birol also emphasized the urgency of increasing investments in Africa to ensure an equitable and people-centric energy transition.
Prior to the global conference, the IEA will organize its second Energy Efficiency Policy Training Week for Africa in Nairobi in March 2024. This initiative aims to empower the next generation of policymakers in the region with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive energy efficiency efforts forward.