Second UfM energy, climate business forum takes place in Lisbon

AMMAN — The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) organised the second edition of the Energy and Climate Business Forum in Lisbon on Thursday in partnership with the Portuguese ministry of environment and energy transition and the Portuguese Energy Agency.

Under the theme “supporting local authorities in their efforts towards the energy transition”, the forum discusses the role of the UfM in endorsing and supporting regional dialogue initiatives and projects, such as the Tafileh Wind Farm in order to build a more sustainable and inclusive future for the region, according to a statement from the UfM.

Some 150 representatives of local authorities, mayors, stakeholders, private sector investors, companies, service providers, international financial institutions, international and regional organisations working in the field of energy and climate action were discussing ways to enhance cooperation, and promote innovative and tangible financing solutions, oriented towards supporting local authorities' efforts in developing renewable energies.

“Local authorities are best placed to drive the reduction of emissions through their unique position of being able to shape policy on land, buildings, water, waste and transport. City councils all over the region are taking initiative in attempts to boost renewable energy, tackle energy security, lower bills, generate employment and ultimately achieve inclusive and sustainable development,” the statement said. 

Delivering the opening speech, Portuguese Secretary of State of Energy João Galamba said: “Decarbonisation and energy transition should be addressed as driven action lines of our society as a whole. This represents a major strategic opportunity that implies the mobilisation of all local communities. The UfM, in its unique role of regional dialogue and debate platform, shall be enhanced at all levels, including key actors and contributing actively to build an inclusive and proactive Mediterranean energy policy, that ensures the fulfilment of energy and climate goals and commitments." 

Jorge Borrego, UfM senior deputy secretary general for energy and climate action, said: “While climate change remains a global issue, some of the best strategies for mitigation are implemented at the local level. When adequately addressed, the energy and climate challenges faced by the region can become business opportunities for local communities while also contributing to the transition towards sustainable energy."

According to the Paris-based Mediterranean Energy Observatory, per capita energy demand is estimated to increase by 62 per cent in southern and eastern Mediterranean countries by 2040 with the region experiencing intensive industrialisation and tourism growth, putting pressure on the energy resources available. 

The Tafileh Wind Farm, which is the first utility scale renewable project in Jordan, has been recognised as a best practice during the event, the statement said. 

This UfM-labelled project breaks new ground for renewable energy projects in the Mediterranean and serves as an example of successful partnership between government and the private sector and has generated enormous growth in terms of business opportunities in the region, according to the statement.

The Tafileh Wind Farm constituted almost 25 per cent of the energy produced from renewable sources in Jordan in 2018 and currently powers 83,000 homes with 80 per cent of its employees are from the local area, according to the statement.

“The Tafileh Wind Farm provides scholarships for students, supports cultural activities and runs a mobile clinic. It represents an inclusive and a viable alternative for a nation that had previously relied on fuel imports to provide electricity to the country’s homes and businesses,” read the statement.