This report provides an overview of the event “Climate Emergency Day on Accelerating Renewable Energy Transition in Somalia” that took place at Astaan TV Main Hall on Saturday, July 22, 2023, from 6:10 pm to 7:45 pm. The event was organized by GSI, and A4E. The purpose of the event was to raise awareness and foster dialogue on the challenges and opportunities of renewable energy in Somalia, and to showcase some of the successful projects and initiatives that have been implemented in the country. The event featured four key speakers and eight panel guests who shared their views and experiences on various aspects of renewable energy, such as policy, environment, market, technology, and development. The event also included a panel discussion with questions from the moderator and the audience. The main objectives of the event were to:

• Highlight the importance and urgency of transitioning to renewable energy in Somalia in light of the climate emergency and the energy crisis.
• Showcase some of the best practices and lessons learned from renewable energy projects and initiatives in Somalia, especially those involving solar minigrids.
• Identify the key challenges and barriers that hinder the development and adoption of renewable energy solutions in Somalia, and propose possible solutions and recommendations.
• Encourage collaboration and partnership among different stakeholders, such as government, private sector, civil society, academia, and international organizations, in promoting renewable energy in Somalia.

The main points or findings that will be discussed in this report are:

• The key speakers’ speeches on their respective topics related to renewable energy in Somalia.
• The panel guests’ presentations and responses on their respective topics related to renewable energy in Somalia.
• The questions that were asked during the panel discussion and the answers that were given by the panelists.

Key Speakers

Mr. Adan Mohamed Aqli, co-leader of Climate Clock Somalia

The co-leader gave a speech on the history, vision, mission, and activities of Climate Clock Somalia, and the purpose of the event. He stated that Climate Clock Somalia is a youth-led initiative that aims to raise awareness and action on the climate emergency and the need for renewable energy transition in Somalia. He stated that Climate Clock Somalia was inspired by the global Climate Clock movement, which uses public art installations to display the time left to reach 1.5°C of global warming and 100% of renewable energy. He stated that Climate Clock Somalia has installed a digital clock in Mogadishu that shows the same countdown, and has also organized various events and campaigns to educate and mobilize people on climate issues.

He also stated that Climate Clock Somalia shares the commitment of the global Climate Clock organization to combating climate change and reducing carbon emissions. He stated that Climate Clock Somalia firmly believes that renewable energy is the key to achieving this goal, and is honored to support the efforts of all stakeholders in this regard. He stated that Climate Clock Somalia hopes to send an urgent message to the world – that we have a single deadline – a critical time window left to avert the worst impacts of climate change – but that we also have many lifelines – solutions available to both governments and industry. He stated that our shared aim is clear: We must shorten the global timeline for climate action to be in line with what the science demands and increase the level of transformative action the world undertakes. In short, we must do more in less time.

He also stated that the purpose of the event was to bring together different stakeholders and experts to discuss and find solutions for the climate emergency and the renewable energy transition in Somalia. He stated that the event was part of a five-year ambition to reduce global warming to 1.5°C and to achieve 100% renewable energy in Somalia. He stated that the event was also an opportunity to create new tools and guidance for Somalia to gain new opportunities and benefits from renewable energy development.

He concluded his speech by thanking all the participants and partners for their support and interest in Climate Clock Somalia, and by inviting them to join the movement and take action for a better future. He also invited them to attend an upcoming conference on renewable energy, which will be held in [location] on 2024. The conference will bring together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the latest developments in renewable energy and explore innovative solutions for promoting sustainable energy use in Somalia.

He summarized his speech by stating that:

• Climate Clock Somalia is a youth-led initiative that aims to raise awareness and action on the climate emergency and the need for renewable energy transition in Somalia.
• Climate Clock Somalia was inspired by the global Climate Clock movement, which uses public art installations to display the time left to reach 1.5°C of global warming and 100% of renewable energy.
• Climate Clock Somalia has installed a digital clock in Mogadishu that shows the same countdown, and has also organized various events and campaigns to educate and mobilize people on climate issues.
• Climate Clock Somalia shares the commitment of the global Climate Clock organization to combating climate change and reducing carbon emissions.
• Climate Clock Somalia firmly believes that renewable energy is the key to achieving this goal, and is honored to support the efforts of all stakeholders in this regard.
• Climate Clock Somalia hopes to send an urgent message to the world – that we have a single deadline – a critical time window left to avert

Prof Hassan Warsame Nor, Advisor on Environment & Climate Change at Benadir University

Prof Nor gave a speech on how to address global warming, the climate change impact in a Somali context, adaptation mechanisms, how to improve renewable energy, and what kind of programs, projects, initiatives, innovations, loans, investments, Somalia needs now while the government is weak and does not have a massive capital to build the human infrastructure of renewable energy and climate adaptation strategies. He stated that global warming is a serious threat to humanity and the planet, as it causes extreme weather events, sea level rise, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, water scarcity, health risks, and social conflicts. He stated that Somalia is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change impacts, as it faces recurrent droughts, floods, cyclones, desertification, displacement, and violence.

He also stated that adaptation is a key strategy to cope with climate change impacts in Somalia, as it involves reducing exposure and sensitivity, and increasing adaptive capacity and resilience. He stated that adaptation can be achieved through various measures, such as:

• Improving water management and conservation
• Promoting sustainable agriculture and livestock practices
• Enhancing disaster risk reduction and early warning systems
• Supporting social protection and safety nets
• Strengthening governance and institutions

He also stated that renewable energy is a key strategy to mitigate climate change impacts in Somalia, as it involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and increasing energy access and security. He stated that renewable energy can be improved through various measures, such as:

• Developing renewable energy policies and regulations
• Mobilizing renewable energy financing and investment
• Building renewable energy capacity and skills
• Fostering renewable energy innovation and entrepreneurship
• Expanding renewable energy infrastructure and services

He also stated that Somalia needs various types of programs, projects, initiatives, innovations, loans, investments, to support renewable energy development and climate adaptation strategies, while the government is weak and does not have a massive capital. He stated that these can include:

• International cooperation and assistance from donors, partners, and organizations
• Private sector involvement and participation from companies, investors, and entrepreneurs
• Civil society engagement and empowerment from NGOs, communities, and groups
• Academic contribution and research from universities, institutes, and experts

He concluded his speech by emphasizing the urgency and importance of addressing global warming, the climate change impact in a Somali context, adaptation mechanisms, how to improve renewable energy, and what kind of programs, projects, initiatives, innovations, loans, investments, Somalia needs now.

Minister Jama Ministry of Energy and Water Resource in Somalia

The minister sent an open letter to the event participants and the climate clock team, stating that he was unable to attend the event due to an unexpected event, but that he wanted to share his views on the challenges and opportunities of renewable energy in Somalia, and his policy recommendations. He stated that he appreciated the initiative and efforts of Climate Clock Somalia and all the partners and actors involved in organizing and attending the event. He stated that he recognized the importance and urgency of transitioning to renewable energy in Somalia in light of the climate emergency and the energy crisis. He stated that he supported the vision and mission of Climate Clock Somalia and its five-year ambition to reduce global warming to 1.5°C and to achieve 100% renewable energy in Somalia.

He also stated that Somalia is facing a severe energy crisis, with only 15% of its population having access to electricity, and most of them relying on expensive and polluting diesel generators. He also stated that Somalia is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and conflicts over scarce resources. He argued that renewable energy is a viable solution for Somalia’s energy needs, as it can provide clean, affordable, reliable, and sustainable power for both urban and rural areas. He cited some of the advantages of renewable energy, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy security, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods.

He also acknowledged some of the challenges that hinder the development and adoption of renewable energy solutions in Somalia, such as lack of infrastructure, regulation, financing, capacity, awareness, and coordination. He proposed some policy recommendations to address these challenges, such as:

• Developing a national renewable energy strategy and action plan that sets clear targets and indicators for renewable energy development.
• Establishing a regulatory framework that creates a conducive environment for renewable energy investment and innovation.
• Mobilizing domestic and international resources to finance renewable energy projects and initiatives.
• Building technical and institutional capacity to plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate renewable energy projects and initiatives.
• Raising public awareness and education on the benefits and potential of renewable energy.
• Strengthening cooperation and coordination among different stakeholders involved in renewable energy development.

He concluded his letter by expressing his commitment to support renewable energy development in Somalia, and by calling for more collaboration and partnership among all actors in this sector. He also expressed his regret for not being able to attend the event in person, but his hope for being able to join future events organized by Climate Clock Somalia or its partners. He also thanked all the participants and partners for their support and interest in Climate Clock Somalia, and wished them a successful and fruitful event.

Dr. Abdullahi Hassan, BRA Director of Environment, Climate change and water in Banadir Regional Administration

The director sent an open letter to the event participants and the climate clock team, stating that he was unable to attend the event due to an urgent matter, but that he wanted to share his views on the environmental and social impacts of renewable energy in Somalia, and his suggestions for improving energy efficiency and conservation. He stated that he appreciated the initiative and efforts of Climate Clock Somalia and all the partners and actors involved in organizing and attending the event. He stated that he recognized the potential and need for renewable energy in Somalia, as it can provide clean, affordable, reliable, and sustainable power for both urban and rural areas. He stated that he supported the vision and mission of Climate Clock Somalia and its five-year ambition to reduce global warming to 1.5°C and to achieve 100% renewable energy in Somalia.

He also stated that renewable energy can have positive impacts on both the environment and society in Somalia, as it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, mitigate climate change, protect natural resources, and enhance human health and well-being. He cited some examples of how renewable energy can benefit different sectors and groups in Somalia, such as agriculture, health, education, women, and youth.

He also stated that renewable energy can have negative impacts if not planned and managed properly, such as land use conflicts, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and social inequality. He suggested some measures to minimize these impacts, such as:

• Conducting environmental and social impact assessments for renewable energy projects and initiatives.
• Applying the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and participation in renewable energy planning and decision-making.
• Adopting best practices and standards for renewable energy design, installation, operation, and maintenance.
• Promoting energy efficiency and conservation measures to reduce energy demand and waste.
• Enhancing resilience and adaptation to climate change impacts through renewable energy solutions.

He concluded his letter by emphasizing the importance of balancing the environmental and social aspects of renewable energy development in Somalia, and by urging for more research and innovation in this field. He also expressed his regret for not being able to attend the event in person, but his hope for being able to join future events organized by Climate Clock Somalia or its partners. He also thanked all the participants and partners for their support and interest in Climate Clock Somalia, and wished them a successful and fruitful event.

Eng. Mohamed Warsame Hassan From Beca Electricity Company

Eng Hassan gave a speech on the technical and financial aspects of renewable energy solutions in Somalia, and his experience and expertise in implementing solar minigrids programs. He stated that renewable energy solutions can offer technical advantages over conventional energy sources, such as modularity, scalability, flexibility, and reliability. He stated that renewable energy solutions can also offer financial advantages over conventional energy sources, such as cost-effectiveness, affordability, profitability, and sustainability. He cited some examples of how these advantages can be achieved through different types of renewable energy solutions, such as solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbines, biomass gasifiers, and hybrid systems.

He also shared his experience and expertise in implementing solar minigrids projects in Somalia, which are decentralized electricity systems that use solar PV panels to generate power and distribute it to customers through a local grid. He stated that he has been involved in several solar minigrids projects in different regions of Somalia, such as Mogadishu, Beledweyne, Kismayo, Baidoa, Jowhar. He stated that these programs have provided electricity to thousands of customers in urban and rural areas, and have improved their access to basic services and economic opportunities. He stated that these programs have also reduced their dependence on diesel generators and their exposure to pollution and noise.

He also discussed some of the challenges and lessons learned from implementing solar minigrids Programs in Somalia, such as:

• The need for proper site selection and feasibility studies to ensure optimal design and performance of the solar minigrids.
• The need for adequate financing and business models to ensure economic viability and sustainability of the solar minigrids.
• The need for effective regulation and governance to ensure fair pricing and quality service delivery of the solar minigrids.

• The need for community engagement and education to ensure social acceptance and ownership of the solar minigrids.

He concluded his speech by highlighting his achievements and expertise in implementing solar minigrids programs  in Somalia, and by offering his services and support to anyone interested in developing renewable energy solutions in the country.

Panel Discussion

Introduction by Najiib

Najiib introduced the panel discussion topic and format, and introduced the panel guests. He stated that the panel discussion topic was “Accelerating Renewable Energy Transition in Somalia”, and that it would be divided into two parts, each lasting 25 minutes, with a 8-minute break in between. He stated that he would guide the discussion and ensure that all panelists have an opportunity to share their views.

He then introduced the panel guests, who were:

• Hussein from Tamarso Solar Energy Company
• Eng. Mohamed Hassan Representative from Beca Company of Electricity
• Prof Hassan Warsame Nor Advisor on Environment & Climate Change at Benadir University. And project leader of Sustainabe Development Goals (SDG). Also member of founders for Green Somali Initiatives (GSI)

He briefly described their backgrounds and roles in relation to renewable energy development in Somalia, and thanked them for their participation.

Panelist 1: Hussein from Tamarso Solar Energy Company

Hussein shared his views on the market opportunities and barriers for renewable energy in Somalia, and his strategies and innovations for promoting solar energy products and services among customers. He stated that renewable energy has a huge market potential in Somalia, as there is a high demand for electricity, a low supply of conventional energy sources, and abundant natural resources, such as solar radiation, wind speed, and biomass availability. He stated that renewable energy can offer competitive prices, high quality, and convenience to customers, compared to conventional energy sources, such as diesel generators, kerosene lamps, and charcoal stoves.

He also stated that he has been running a solar energy company in Somalia, which provides solar energy products and services to customers in both urban and rural areas. He stated that his company offers a range of solar energy products, such as solar lanterns, solar home systems, solar water heaters, solar refrigerators, and solar pumps. He stated that his company also offers a range of solar energy services, such as installation, maintenance, repair, and warranty. He stated that his company has served thousands of customers in Somalia, and has received positive feedback and referrals from them.

He also discussed some of the barriers that he has faced in running a solar energy company in Somalia, such as:

• The lack of awareness and trust among customers about solar energy technologies and benefits.
• The lack of access to finance and credit for both customers and suppliers of solar energy products and services.
• The lack of regulation and standardization for solar energy products and services in the market.
• The lack of skilled and qualified workers for solar energy installation and maintenance.
• The lack of security and stability in some areas of Somalia, which poses risks to the safety and operation of solar energy systems.

He concluded his presentation by sharing some strategies and innovations that he has used to overcome these barriers and to promote solar energy products and services among customers, such as:

• Conducting marketing campaigns and awareness-raising activities to educate customers about solar energy technologies and benefits.
• Offering flexible payment options and financing schemes to customers, such as pay-as-you-go, leasing, microfinance, etc.
• Providing quality assurance and customer service to customers, such as warranties, guarantees, after-sales support, etc.
• Partnering with local communities and organizations to distribute and install solar energy products and services in remote areas.
• Investing in training and capacity building for workers and technicians for solar energy installation and maintenance.

Panelist 2: Eng. Mohamed Hassan, Representative from Beca Company of Electricity

Eng. Hassan shared his views on the technical and financial feasibility of hybridizing existing diesel minigrids with solar power in Somalia, and his challenges and successes in working with local electricity service providers. He stated that hybridizing diesel minigrids with solar power can offer technical and financial benefits, such as reducing fuel consumption, lowering operational costs, increasing reliability, and improving environmental performance. He cited some examples of how hybridizing diesel minigrids with solar power can benefit different types of customers, such as households, businesses, institutions, and public services.

He also stated that he has been involved in several hybridization projects in Somalia, which are projects that add solar PV panels to existing diesel minigrids to generate power and distribute it to customers through a local grid. He stated that these projects have been implemented in collaboration with local electricity service providers, who are private companies that own and operate diesel minigrids in different areas of Somalia. He stated that these projects have provided electricity to thousands of customers in both urban and rural areas, and have reduced their dependence on diesel generators and their exposure to pollution and noise.

He also discussed some of the challenges that he has faced in implementing hybridization projects in Somalia, such as:

• The lack of technical standards and guidelines for hybridization projects in Somalia, which makes it difficult to design and implement the projects according to best practices.
• The lack of financial incentives and subsidies for hybridization projects in Somalia, which makes it hard to recover the initial investment costs and operational expenses.
• The lack of trust and cooperation among local electricity service providers, who are often reluctant or resistant to adopt new technologies or share their data or customers with other actors.
• The lack of regulation and enforcement for electricity tariffs, quality, and safety in Somalia, which creates uncertainty and risk for the project developers and customers.

He concluded his presentation by sharing some successes and lessons learned from implementing hybridization projects in Somalia, such as:

• The need for conducting detailed technical and economic feasibility studies to ensure optimal design and performance of the hybridization projects.
• The need for providing adequate financing and business models to ensure economic viability and sustainability of the hybridization projects.
• The need for building trust and partnership with local electricity service providers to ensure smooth implementation and operation of the hybridization projects.
• The need for providing technical support and capacity building for local electricity service providers to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the hybridization projects.

Panelist 3: Prof Hassan Warsame Nor, Advisor on Environment & Climate Change at Benadir University

Prof Nor presented his views on the research and innovation opportunities and challenges for renewable energy in Somalia, and his projects and initiatives for advancing sustainable development goals (SDGs) and green Somali initiatives (GSI). He stated that renewable energy is a key area for research and innovation in Somalia, as it can provide new knowledge, insights, solutions, and opportunities for addressing the energy and climate challenges in the country. He stated that renewable energy can also contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs), which are a set of 17 global goals that aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all by 2030. He cited some examples of how renewable energy can support different SDGs, such as SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 13 (climate action), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), etc.

He also stated that he has been involved in several projects and initiatives for advancing renewable energy research and innovation in Somalia, as well as promoting sustainable development goals (SDGs) and green Somali initiatives (GSI). He stated that these projects and initiatives include:

• Conducting research on renewable energy technologies, potential, barriers, impacts, and policies in Somalia, and publishing papers, reports, and books on these topics.
• Developing and implementing renewable energy projects and initiatives that demonstrate innovative solutions for different sectors and groups in Somalia, such as solar irrigation systems, biogas digesters, wind turbines, etc.
• Teaching and training students, professionals, and communities on renewable energy technologies, benefits, potential, best practices, etc., and developing curricula, modules, and materials on these topics.
• Establishing and leading networks, platforms, and partnerships for renewable energy research and innovation in Somalia, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Center at Benadir University, the Green Somali Initiatives (GSI) network, etc.

He also discussed some of the opportunities and challenges that he has faced in advancing renewable energy research and innovation in Somalia, as well as promoting sustainable development goals (SDGs) and green Somali initiatives (GSI). He stated that some of the opportunities include:

• The availability of abundant natural resources and high solar radiation in Somalia, which offer great potential for renewable energy development and innovation.
• The increasing demand and interest for renewable energy solutions among different sectors and groups in Somalia, which create a market opportunity and a social need for renewable energy development and innovation.
• The growing support and assistance from international organizations and partners for renewable energy development and innovation in Somalia, which provide technical and financial resources and expertise for renewable energy development and innovation.

He stated that some of the challenges include:

• The lack of infrastructure and security in some areas of Somalia, which make it difficult to access and implement renewable energy projects and initiatives.
• The lack of data and information on renewable energy technologies, potential, barriers, impacts, and policies in Somalia, which make it hard to conduct and disseminate renewable energy research and innovation.
• The lack of funding and incentives for renewable energy research and innovation in Somalia, which make it challenging to sustain and scale up renewable energy projects and initiatives.
• The lack of awareness and capacity among stakeholders and beneficiaries on renewable energy technologies, benefits, potential, best practices, etc., which make it necessary to provide education and training on these topics.

He concluded his presentation by highlighting his achievements and expertise in advancing renewable energy research and innovation in Somalia, as well as promoting sustainable development goals (SDGs) and green Somali initiatives (GSI). He also offered his services and support to anyone interested in developing or collaborating on renewable energy projects or initiatives in Somalia.

Questions

The questions that were asked during the panel discussion and the answers that were given by the panelists were:

Q: What are the specific renewable energy sources that Somalia can tap into to reduce its dependence on oil and gas, and how can the country encourage their use?

A: The panelists agreed that Somalia has a rich potential for various renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, biomass, hydro, and geothermal. They suggested some ways to encourage their use, such as:

• • Conducting resource assessments
  • Developing renewable energy projects and initiatives that suit the local context and needs
  • Providing incentives and subsidies for renewable energy development and adoption
  • Raising awareness and education on renewable energy benefits and potential
  • Creating a supportive policy and regulatory environment for renewable energy development and adoption

Q: How can Somalia ensure that households in both urban and rural areas have access to affordable and sustainable cooking energy, especially considering the country’s high levels of energy poverty?

A: The panelists agreed that cooking energy is a critical issue for Somalia, as most households rely on traditional biomass fuels, such as charcoal and firewood, which are expensive, scarce, and harmful to health and environment. They suggested some ways to ensure access to affordable and sustainable cooking energy, such as:

• • Promoting improved cookstoves that use less fuel and produce less smoke
  • Introducing alternative cooking fuels, such as biogas, ethanol, or solar cookers
  • Providing subsidies or vouchers for low-income households to access clean cooking solutions
  • Encouraging behavioral change and social norms towards clean cooking practices
  • Strengthening the supply chain and distribution network for clean cooking solutions

Q: What role can the private sector play in driving the development and adoption of renewable energy solutions in Somalia, and how can the government incentivize private investment in the sector?

A: The panelists agreed that the private sector can play a vital role in driving the development and adoption of renewable energy solutions in Somalia, as it can provide innovation, expertise, capital, and services to the sector. They suggested some ways to incentivize private investment in the sector, such as:

• • Providing tax breaks, grants, loans, or guarantees for renewable energy projects and initiatives
  • Reducing import duties, tariffs, or fees for renewable energy equipment and materials
  • Establishing feed-in tariffs, net metering, or power purchase agreements for renewable energy generation and distribution
  • Creating a level playing field and fair competition for renewable energy providers and consumers
  • Improving the security and stability of the business environment and the rule of law

Q: What policy changes are necessary to accelerate the transition to renewable energy in Somalia, and how can the government ensure that these changes are implemented effectively?

A: The panelists agreed that policy changes are necessary to accelerate the transition to renewable energy in Somalia, as they can create a conducive environment for renewable energy development and adoption. They suggested some policy changes that are necessary, such as:

• • Developing a national renewable energy strategy and action plan that sets clear targets and indicators for renewable energy development
  • Establishing a national renewable energy agency or authority that coordinates and oversees renewable energy development
  • Enacting a renewable energy law or regulation that defines and regulates renewable energy technologies, standards, tariffs, quality, safety, etc.
  • Implementing a national electrification plan or program that prioritizes renewable energy solutions for rural electrification
  • Integrating renewable energy into national development plans or policies, such as climate change mitigation and adaptation, poverty reduction, gender equality, etc.

They also suggested some ways to ensure effective implementation of these policy changes, such as:

• Allocating adequate resources and budget for renewable energy development
• Monitoring and evaluating the progress and impact of renewable energy development
• Strengthening institutional capacity and accountability for renewable energy development
• Engaging stakeholders and beneficiaries in renewable energy planning and decision-making
• Harmonizing policies and regulations at different levels of governance

Q: How can Somalia develop renewable energy infrastructure that not only meets the country’s energy needs but also promotes economic development and job creation?

A: The panelists agreed that renewable energy infrastructure can have positive impacts on economic development and job creation in Somalia, as it can provide electricity, which is essential for productive activities, such as agriculture, industry, services, etc. They suggested some ways to develop renewable energy infrastructure that promotes economic development and job creation, such as:

• • Developing renewable energy projects and initiatives that create direct and indirect jobs, such as installation, maintenance, repair, manufacturing, distribution, etc.
  • Developing renewable energy projects and initiatives that support local enterprises and industries, such as agro-processing, cold storage, irrigation, etc.
  • Developing renewable energy projects and initiatives that enhance social services and public goods, such as health, education, water, sanitation, etc.
  • Developing renewable energy projects and initiatives that foster innovation and entrepreneurship, such as incubators, accelerators, hubs, etc.

Q: In what ways can international organizations and partnerships support Somalia’s transition to renewable energy, and what lessons can be learned from other countries’ experiences in this area?

A: The panelists agreed that international organizations and partnerships can support Somalia’s transition to renewable energy, as they can provide technical and financial assistance, knowledge and information, advocacy and awareness, and coordination and collaboration to the sector. They suggested some ways that international organizations and partnerships can support Somalia’s transition to renewable energy, such as:

• • Providing technical and financial assistance for renewable energy projects and initiatives, such as feasibility studies, design, installation, operation, maintenance, etc.
  • Providing knowledge and information on renewable energy technologies, benefits, potential, best practices, lessons learned, etc.
  • Providing advocacy and awareness on renewable energy issues, challenges, opportunities, policies, regulations, etc.
  • Providing coordination and collaboration among different stakeholders involved in renewable energy development, such as government agencies, NGOs, donors, private sector, academia, etc.

They also suggested some lessons that can be learned from other countries’ experiences in renewable energy development, such as:

• The importance of having a clear vision and strategy for renewable energy development that is aligned with national development goals and priorities
• The importance of having a supportive policy and regulatory environment for renewable energy development that creates incentives and opportunities for investment and innovation
• The importance of having a participatory and inclusive approach to renewable energy development that engages stakeholders and beneficiaries in planning and decision-making
• The importance of having a holistic and integrated approach to renewable energy development that considers the environmental, social, economic, and technical aspects of the sector
• The importance of having a learning and adaptive approach to renewable energy development that monitors and evaluates the progress and impact of the sector

Conclusion

This report has provided an overview of the event “Climate Emergency Day on Accelerating Renewable Energy Transition in Somalia” that took place at Astaan TV Main Hall on Saturday, July 22, 2023, from 6:10 pm to 7:45 pm. The report has summarized the key speakers’ speeches on their respective topics related to renewable energy in Somalia. The report has also summarized the panel guests’ presentations and responses on their respective topics related to renewable energy in Somalia. The report has also summarized the questions that were asked during the panel discussion and the answers that were given by the panelists.

The report has highlighted the main points or findings of the event, such as:

• The importance and urgency of transitioning to renewable energy in Somalia in light of the climate emergency and the energy crisis
• The best practices and lessons learned from renewable energy projects and initiatives in Somalia, especially those involving solar minigrids
• The key challenges and barriers that hinder the development and adoption of renewable energy solutions in Somalia, and the possible solutions and recommendations
• The need for collaboration and partnership among different stakeholders in promoting renewable energy in Somalia

The report has also highlighted the implications or recommendations that emerged from the event, such as:

• The need for more commitment and leadership from the Somali government in developing and implementing a national renewable energy strategy and action plan.
• The need for more involvement and participation from the Somali private sector in driving the market development and adoption of renewable energy solutions.
• The need for more engagement and empowerment from the Somali civil society in advocating for and benefiting from renewable energy solutions.
• The need for more collaboration and partnership among all stakeholders involved in renewable energy development in Somalia.

The report concludes by stating that the event was a success, as it raised awareness and fostered dialogue on the challenges and opportunities of renewable energy in Somalia, and showcased some of the successful projects and initiatives that have been implemented in the country. The report also states that the event was a catalyst, as it generated ideas and recommendations for accelerating renewable energy transition in Somalia, and encouraged cooperation and partnership among different actors in this sector.