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Major Commitments and Initiatives at the SEforALL Global Forum

The recent SEforALL Global Forum held in Bridgetown, Barbados on March 12-13, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the global clean energy transition, bringing together over 1,300 participants from more than 70 countries. With commitments surpassing USD 900 million, this forum served as a pivotal gathering for global leaders, discussing efforts to scale access to clean energy and drive sustainable development across the world.

The forum's highlight was a series of substantial financial pledges aimed at fostering clean energy investments. Notable initiatives included:

1. DRE Nigeria Fund (USD 500 million): Launched by a consortium including the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), this fund will finance mini-grids, solar home systems, commercial power solutions, and energy storage technology within Nigeria.

2. First Loss Equity Fund (USD 250 million): Allied Climate Partners initiated this fund to enhance global clean energy investment. It also consists of a specific USD 130 million allocation for the Caribbean, aimed at mobilizing green finance.

3. Results-Based Financing (RBF) (USD 20 million): The European Union announced a collaborative effort with UNOPS and SEforALL to allocate these funds for deploying mini-grids and electrifying rural households in Sierra Leone.

4. ZE-Gen Fossil Fuel Generator Displacement (USD 12 million): The IKEA Foundation pledged significant funding to help displace fossil fuel generators in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and the Indo-Pacific region with renewable alternatives.

5. e-Cooking Support Program (USD 3.5 to USD 5 Million): This initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking solutions in Sierra Leone, aligning with the country's Energy Transition and Green Growth Plan.

National Initiatives for Energy Transition

In addition to these global commitments, several national announced plans aligned with sustainable energy goals. Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados unveiled the Barbados Energy Transition and Investment Plan (ETIP), aiming for net-zero emissions by 2035. Similarly, Pakistan initiated collaboration with SEforALL to develop its national energy transition roadmap.

Regional and Global Collaborations

The forum also saw the introduction of the GFANZ Caribbean Chapter, aimed at mobilizing private capital for renewable energy projects while addressing local investment hurdles. In Latin America and the Caribbean, SEforALL committed to strengthening policies for a just energy transition in collaboration with the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE).

Energy Heroes Awards 2025

In recognition of the impactful contributions in the clean energy sector, the 2025 Energy Heroes Awards were presented during the forum, honoring seven remarkable innovators. These included:

• - Deborah Fadeyi from Nigeria (Innovator)
• - The BRILHO programme from Mozambique (Changemaker)
• - Becool Indonesia from Indonesia (Innovator)
• - Mee Panyar from Myanmar (Changemaker)
• - Soluz Honduras from Honduras (Innovator)
• - Jorge Rivera Staff from Panama (Changemaker)
• - Youth 4 Sustainability from the UAE (Innovator)

Moving Forward

The SEforALL Global Forum reinforces its role as a vital platform for networking, promoting collaboration, and mobilizing actions essential for a sustainable energy future. As the world grapples with climate change and energy poverty, forums like these are critical in spearheading initiatives that promise increased access to clean energy for all. With the collective effort put forth at this year’s gathering, there’s renewed optimism in achieving substantial progress toward sustainable energy solutions for emerging economies.

For ongoing updates and insights on the clean energy landscape, visit SEforALL’s website.