Empowering sustainable development: The role of DRE in achieving SDGs
We are elated to share the momentous news that ARE has received the prestigious Bronze Award at the Association Excellence Awards 2023! This accolade symbolises the commendable dedication of ARE to its Members and the cause of renewable electrification, a commitment that promises even more remarkable milestones on the horizon for our organisation.
As we reflect on this significant recognition, it becomes evident that our tireless efforts align seamlessly with a broader global agenda—the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Goals related to energy access have particular significance, as energy underpins progress across various sectors. SDG 7 focuses on affordable and clean energy and is therefore central to achieving many other SDGs.
Electricity access as an enabler of other SDGs
- SDG 8: Decent work & economic growth
The International Energy Agency estimates that decentralised renewable energy (DRE) solutions represent the least-cost approach to achieving 55% of all new connections required to fulfil SDG 7 by 2030. DRE not only offers a sustainable, fast and cost-competitive solution to the electricity access conundrum but also contributes to green job creation. ARE’s just-released a study titled “Catalysing Green Rural Job Creation with DRE in West Africa“, in collaboration with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, demonstrating the job creation potential of DRE solutions. - SDG 13: Climate action
DRE solutions play a vital role in addressing climate change by mitigating carbon emissions. In Africa alone, these solutions have the potential to avoid 626 million tons of CO2e, Furthermore, DRE enhances climate resilience by enabling local agricultural, commercial and industrial activities as well as empowering entrepreneurs.
Asanstys Systems
- SDG 5: Gender equality
SDG 5 addresses various dimensions of inequality and discrimination based on gender, seeking to eliminate harmful practices, ensure equal opportunities in women education and employment. In this regard, ARE’s publication, Women Entrepreneurs as Key Drivers in the DRE Sector, underlines the pivotal role of women entrepreneurship fostering gender equality. - SDG 3: Good health & well-being
SDG 3, focusing on good health and well-being, is crucial for remote communities. ARE addresses this through its publication Best Practices for Electrifying Rural Health Care Facilities with DRE showcasing healthcare facilities in remote areas that have access to reliable and sustainable energy.
Reinforcing the commitment to achieving SDGs at a global scale, ARE actively participated in COP28 and created synergies to promote DRE solutions worldwide. The ARE delegation actively contributed to key COP28 sessions, including ESA’s Fireside chat on Space for Clean Energy, IRENA’s session on Transitioning Remote Communities to Renewable Energy, CLEANaction Roundtable on Future Focus and Funding, ENGIE Roundtable on National Energy Plans, Commonwealth’s event on Fast Tracking Energy Transition, Schneider Electric Sustainability Roundtables, ADEME’s session on Equipment for PURE, and Global Solar Council’s session on Distributed Solar.
Maintaining this momentum, ARE is extending its efforts at both regional and country levels in Africa, fostering a sustainable energy future. Simultaneously, in collaboration with ARE Members, ARE is also expanding its presence in ASEAN countries to amplify its impact.
On 14 December 2023, join us in the I4E showcase webinar, where ARE will illuminate the contributions of DRE companies towards achieving the SDGs. Register here.
EAIF 2023 to take place in Lagos on 21-23 May 2024
Finally, ARE is thrilled to announce that its next Energy Access Investment Forum will take place in Lagos, Nigeria, on 21-23 May 2024. The flagship event of the DRE sector promises to be a significant platform for achieving sustainable development worldwide.
Highlights from EAIF 2023 in Abidjan
As we approach the holidays at the end of the year, ARE extends warm wishes to all. Looking forward to the coming year, we anticipate more milestones, collaborations, and shared successes in the journey toward achieving the SDGs through the transformative power of DRE.
