Africa

COP28 Takes Historic Step in Addressing Climate Loss and Damage: A Call for Accountability in Africa

In a groundbreaking move at COP28 in Dubai, the international community has taken a significant step towards addressing the profound impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities. The adoption and operationalization of the Loss and Damage (L&D) fund mark a critical milestone in recognizing the urgent need for financial support in regions disproportionately affected by the climate crisis.

Understanding Loss and Damage

We’ve all once heard a story of a family or community losing their lands, crops, homes and loved ones due to the impacts of climate change. Some of those stories tell about heavy rainfalls, coastal erosion, or desertification causing loss and damage. In the climate space, the concept of Loss and Damage acknowledges that some climate change impacts are beyond the scope of adaptation, leading to irreversible losses for communities. From extreme weather events to slow-onset impacts like rising sea levels, vulnerable regions, particularly in Africa, bear the brunt of these consequences. Communities are grappling with economic losses, displacement, and the inability to rebuild in the aftermath of devastating climate events.

Operationalizing the Fund: Hope for Africa

Africa, a continent facing the severe consequences of climate change, stands to benefit significantly from the operationalization of the Loss and Damage fund. The COP28 decision signals a commitment to providing financial assistance and support for African nations grappling with the escalating impacts of climate change. This includes measures to address both immediate and long-term losses, enabling communities to rebuild and adapt to a changing climate.

“The step towards operationalizing the Loss and Damage fund is a promising start to the climate talks. The urgency of the climate crisis requires that we move with speed to translate this to action and work towards the delivery of financing to communities that continue to bear the brunt of the climate crisis in the most climate-vulnerable regions. It is time for big polluters in line with their historic emissions to pay up to deliver justice to those disproportionately affected by their reliance on fossil fuels” says Landry Ninteretse, Director of 350Africa.org

The Call for Accountability

While 350Africa.org appreciates the establishment of the fund, it is concerning that wealthy nations have swiftly attempted to downplay its significance by proposing inadequate contribution thresholds. The requirements of affected communities amount to hundreds of billions, not mere millions. This should be seen as just the beginning, and there is an urgent need for substantial increases in pledges to address the magnitude of the issue.

The international community has taken a commendable step in addressing Loss and Damage yet, but there remains a critical aspect of accountability that must not be overlooked. Big polluters and fossil fuel companies, historically responsible for a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions, are called upon to participate in the Loss and Damage fund.

This is not merely a financial contribution; it's a recognition of the need to rectify the historical injustice imposed on vulnerable communities.

As COP28 unfolds in Dubai, the global community must seize the opportunity to set a precedent for corporate responsibility in the face of the climate crisis. The Loss and Damage fund, when supported by major polluters and fossil fuel companies, can become a powerful tool for redressing climate-related injustices and supporting the resilience of communities in Africa and beyond. The world is watching, and the decisions made in Dubai will echo for generations to come. It's time for all stakeholders, including corporate giants, to step up and take responsibility for healing our planet and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

by mamadou

COP28: A Pivotal Moment for Climate Action and Renewable Energy Advocacy

With COP28 happening in Dubai, the urgency to address the escalating climate crisis has never been more palpable. In this pivotal moment, 350.org is at the forefront, urging global leaders to embrace a binding energy package that not only sets ambitious goals but also charts a course for a comprehensive and just transition to renewable energy.

Setting the Stage for a Transformative Energy Package:

The discourse put forth by 350.org calls for a paradigm shift at COP28, one that involves committing to a robust and binding energy package. At the heart of this proposal are ambitious targets:

• Tripling Renewable Energy Capacity: The call to triple fair, safe, and clean renewable energy capacity by 2030, with a subsequent deployment of 1.5 terawatts per year, marks a watershed moment in our commitment to combating climate change.
• Doubling Energy Efficiency: Recognizing the intrinsic link between efficiency and sustainability, the proposal to double energy efficiency by 2030 represents a pivotal step towards optimizing communities’ access to affordable and clean energy.
• Phasing Out Fossil Fuels: The unequivocal call for a complete phase-out of fossil fuels by 2050 signals a paradigm shift in our energy paradigm, emphasizing a commitment to a sustainable future.

The Urgency of a Global Renewable Energy Target:

As climate experts warn that 2023 could be the hottest year on record, the significance of adhering to the 1.5°C global heating limit cannot be overstated. 350.org emphasizes that a global renewable energy target is not merely symbolic; it is a practical necessity. However, the success of such a target hinges on its swift implementation at a global scale, coupled with a commitment to equity. A mere proclamation will not suffice – tangible actions are imperative. 

Navigating Financial Barriers to a Sustainable Future:

Andreas Sieber, 350.org's Associate Director of Global Policy, brings to light the financial complexities that have long hindered the transition to renewable energy, especially in the Global South. Sieber proposes a multi-faceted approach, including debt cancellation, significant concessional finance, and grants to the tune of $200 billion per year. This financial backing is not charity but an essential investment in a just, equitable and sustainable future.

“A renewable energy target at COP28 will only constitute a meaningful step towards climate justice if it is accompanied by a clear roadmap for implementation that includes equitable mechanisms and commitments in the financial and policy realms, as well as an urgent and equitable phase-out of fossil fuels. Without these, any agreement would represent a hollow, ‘easy win’, and risk allowing polluting countries to hide behind a renewables goal while continuing to emit fossil fuels.” Andreas Sieber, 350.org's Associate Director of Global Policy

May Boeve, Executive Director of 350.org, underscores the concept of climate justice, asserting that a global renewable energy target should be coupled with commitments to finance a just transition. This involves acknowledging the historical disparities and ensuring that the transition away from fossil fuels is both rapid and equitable.

“COP28 presents an opportunity for a long overdue course correction: a global renewable energy target, poised for adoption, is a crucial step towards limiting global heating to below 1.5 degrees. However, it must come with commitments to finance the just transition in the Global South and a rapid, equitable phase out of fossil fuels. 350.org is at COP28 to ensure climate justice is centered in the negotiations, and working with movement partners on the ground, to ensure the voices of those most impacted by the climate crisis take center stage.”  May Boeve, Executive Director of 350.org

Voices from the Frontlines:

In a poignant addition to the narrative, Landry Ninteretse, Regional Director of 350Africa.org, highlights the voices of communities directly impacted by the climate crisis. For these communities, a shift to renewable energy is not a distant goal but an immediate necessity. Ninteretse's call for wealthier nations to expedite their commitment to scaling up renewable energy investments and supporting the tripling of renewable energy capacity by 2030 amplifies the urgency of the situation.

“For communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis, an equitable global shift away from fossil fuels to safe and sustainable renewable energy is an absolute necessity, as they have felt the catastrophic climate impacts for decades. At COP 28, we expect leaders to commit to significantly scaling up investment in renewable energy and supporting plans for the tripling of renewable energy capacity by 2030, while prioritizing the phase-out of fossil fuels. Wealthy nations must respond with the scale and urgency that matches the escalating climate crisis by delivering on a clear plan for climate adaptation finance, loss and damage and enhancing the support for African countries to undertake nationally determined just transition pathways.”

Ensuring the success of COP28's proposed energy package requires a multi-faceted approach. Additionally, the organization stresses the importance of relying solely on proven renewable energy technologies, such as wind and solar, to guarantee the effectiveness of the proposed measures.

by mamadou

The Journey to Achieving 10% Renewables in Ghana’s energy mix in 2030: RE4CC in the Frontline

Ghana is embracing a renewable energy revolution that is poised to transform the nation's energy landscape. With a resolute commitment to achieving 10% renewable energy in its power generation mix, Ghana is charting a course toward a sustainable and prosperous future. At the forefront of this ambitious endeavor is the Renewable Energy for Communities Coalition (RE4CC), a dynamic alliance of civil societies dedicated to driving Ghana's transition to clean, reliable, and affordable energy sources. 

In this article, we embark on an investigative journey of Ghana's renewable energy sector. From the challenges of energy access to the legal framework supporting renewable energy and the grassroots community engagement spearheaded by RE4CC, we delve into the stories that illuminate Ghana's path toward a greener and brighter tomorrow.

The situation of energy access in Ghana

The situation of energy access in Ghana is a tale of two realities. While the urban areas of the country boast relatively high rates of electricity access, with over 87% of the population having reliable power, the story takes a different turn when we venture into rural communities. In these remote areas, nearly half of the population still lacks access to electricity, leaving them in the shadows of energy poverty.

This glaring disparity in energy access poses significant challenges to the development and well-being of rural communities. Without electricity, schools struggle to provide quality education, healthcare facilities are limited in their capabilities, and economic opportunities remain constrained. Basic daily tasks become burdensome, with households relying on traditional and inefficient sources of energy such as kerosene lamps and woods for cooking.

The lack of energy access not only hinders the progress of individuals and communities but also perpetuates inequalities and widens the gap between urban and rural areas. It is a pressing issue that calls for urgent action to bridge the energy divide and provide equal opportunities for all Ghanaians.

Recognizing the critical importance of energy access for socio-economic development, the Ghanaian government, along with various stakeholders, is spearheading initiatives to expand electricity coverage to rural communities. The goal is to ensure that every Ghanaian, regardless of their location, has access to reliable and affordable electricity.

One of the strategies employed is the expansion of the national power grid, extending its reach to previously underserved areas. This involves infrastructure development, including constructing transmission lines, substations, and distribution networks. Through these efforts, the government aims to connect rural communities to the main grid, providing them with a reliable source of electricity.

However, extending the power grid to remote areas can be challenging due to geographical constraints, logistical complexities, and high costs. In some cases, it may not be feasible or cost-effective to rely solely on grid extension. Therefore, alternative approaches are being explored, with a particular emphasis on decentralized and off-grid solutions.

Renewable energy technologies, such as solar power and small-scale hydroelectric systems, are playing a crucial role in bridging the energy access gap in Ghana.

The legal framework of RE in Ghana

To bridge that gap, Ghana has made significant strides in establishing a robust legal framework to promote and support the development of renewable energy. Recognizing the importance of renewable energy in achieving sustainable development goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the government has enacted several laws and regulations to provide a conducive environment for renewable energy investments and operations.

The cornerstone of Ghana's legal framework for renewable energy is the Renewable Energy Act of 2011 (Act 832). This legislation serves as the primary law governing the development, management, utilization, and supply of renewable energy for power generation and other related purposes. The Renewable Energy Act aims to create an enabling environment that attracts investments in the renewable energy sector, supports renewable energy projects, and promotes the use of renewable energy technologies.

However, despite this law, in 2018, the percentage of renewable energy in the energy mix remained less than 2%. This objective of generating 10% of renewable energy in the national energy mix was then pushed back to 2030. While Ghana's legal framework for renewable energy is comprehensive, challenges and gaps still exist.

Power up Ghana with RE 

Access to reliable and affordable electricity remains a pressing challenge in Ghana. While significant progress has been made, millions of Ghanaians still lack access to this essential resource. The lack of energy access hampers socio-economic development limits educational opportunities, and restricts productivity.

Renewable energy emerges as a game-changer, capable of propelling Ghana's progress and bridging the energy access gap. Blessed with abundant solar, wind, hydro, and biomass resources, the nation stands at the precipice of a renewable energy revolution that promises to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and extend the transformative power of electricity to even the remotest corners.

Solar energy, with its unlimited potential, is illuminating previously dark corners of the country. Remote communities, schools, and healthcare centers are embracing solar power, enabling access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Hydroelectric power, a long-standing pillar of Ghana's energy infrastructure, continues to play a vital role, leveraging the nation's water resources to generate clean and reliable electricity. The fusion of traditional and emerging renewable energy sources sets the stage for a diverse and resilient energy mix.

RE4CC in the frontline

The RE4CC (Renewable Energy for Communities Coalition) is at the forefront of Ghana's renewable energy revolution. This coalition brings together various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, community leaders, and renewable energy experts, with a common goal of accelerating the deployment of renewable energy solutions across the country. 

RE4CC acts as a catalyst for change, advocating for policies that promote renewable energy, raising awareness about the benefits of clean energy, and promoting community-centered renewable energy projects such as Renewable Energy for Schools, and Renewable Energy for Communities. 

Launched after the victory to stop the construction of the 700 MW coal-powered station in Ekumfi Regional and Central region of Ghana, the campaign tries to get the Ghanaian government to commit to investing in renewable energy as a solution to Ghana’s energy challenges. The campaign also runs awareness-raising actions on the benefits of renewable energy getting guidance from the Renewable Energy Act of Ghana and manifestos from the presidential election. Indeed, great work on influencing and lobbying has been done so far. In 2017, one of the leading CSO of the RE4C coalition reviewed the RE Act making their input and suggestions back to parliament under the REact initiative. 

As Ghanaians, things have to be spicy sometimes. In 2022, the coalition organized a procession in which they used the launch of the IPCC solutions and adaptation report to call for implementing the RE Act plans to ensure Ghana minimizes its NDCs and that the government commits to its promise of more renewable energy in the energy mix. They walked on the street to educate the public on the release of the IPCC report on solutions and adaptation and why it’s important for Ghana to choose Renewable Energy and provide Solutions.

By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the RE4C coalition is empowering communities to take ownership of their energy future and actively participate in the transition to a sustainable and resilient energy system.

Communities at the center:

Rural women play a key role in supporting their households and communities in achieving food and nutrition security, generating income, and improving rural livelihoods and the overall well-being of the family and community. In July 2022, the RE4C team visited Apam in the central region of Kukurantumi in the eastern region of Ghana to train women and girls on the impacts of climate change and the need to champion the use of renewable energy in their districts. 

While education is the key to human capital development, in some remote areas, school-going children still lack access to electricity to learn at night. That situation prompted the implementation of the Solar for School project in St Louis senior high school in the Ashanti region to on one hand distribute solar kits and on the other, educate students on climate change, renewable energy, as well as the need for them to take the lead and become renewable energy agents of change that can drive the coalition’s vision of a 100% Renewables in Ghana.  

Through training, exhibition, processions, advocacy, and policy review, the RE4C team created a platform for women and young people to become Renewable Energy Champions to enhance the achievement of 10% Renewable energy in Ghana’s energy mix in 2030.

by mamadou