#Baku #Azerbaijan #Kazakhstan #Energy Transition

Insights from COP29: Energy Transition in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan

At the recent COP29 held in Baku, a significant study conducted by the Fondazione MAIRE unveiled the growing awareness of energy transition among residents of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. The survey results indicate that 55% of Azerbaijanis acknowledge the energy transition as a priority, closely mirroring sentiments expressed across Europe.

Growing Awareness

The study conducted by IPSOS surveyed over 2,000 participants across 12 countries, including Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, highlighting a shift in perception towards energy transition. In Azerbaijan, 64% of respondents believe that this transition is essential for combating climate change, a statistic that is notably higher than responses from other significant nations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India. Meanwhile, 53% of Kazakh respondents shared a similar view.

Moreover, the necessity for training and professional development concerning energy transition is emphasized by over 80% of participants in both countries. This marks a decisive recognition of the skills gap and the need for enhanced education in energy-related fields. The implications are profound, especially in regions where traditional energy jobs might face threats from transitioning technologies.

Technical and Non-Technical Skills Needed

Both Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan exhibit a keen awareness of the skills required for this transition. In Azerbaijan, there is a pressing need for problem-solving capabilities due to the numerous challenges anticipated with this shift. Contrastingly, Kazakhstan's respondents highlighted critical thinking as essential to analyze complex data, evaluate alternative approaches, and make informed decisions moving forward.

The skills in demand encompass a wide range of areas, from technical expertise in renewable energy sectors such as solar and wind, to essential non-technical competencies that facilitate effective communication and innovation.

Economic Diversification and Opportunities

A notable finding of the study is the recognition that there are immense economic opportunities tied to the energy transition. With a growing emphasis on sustainable practices, both countries are poised to diversify their economies, moving away from heavy reliance on fossil fuels to adopting renewable solutions. This shift promises not only environmental benefits but also economic diversification that can lead to job creation in emerging sectors.

The Fondazione MAIRE, under the leadership of Fabrizio Di Amato, reiterates that the transition is not just feasible but necessary. Investing in human capital, particularly by developing a workforce that possesses the necessary skills, can enable Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan to actively participate in the global green economy.

Di Amato emphasizes that a comprehensive approach to the energy transition can be adopted, with the appropriate policies and training programs to support this critical change.

Conclusion

The results from the study at COP29 are a call to action for Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan to prioritize energy transition strategies, focusing on skill enhancement and public engagement. As both countries join in recognizing the urgency and importance of this shift, they set the stage for a more sustainable future—a future that promises not only to address climate change but also to unlock new economic potential. Such initiatives are critical as the world moves towards cleaner, more sustainable energy practices. The journey towards energy transition has begun, and with continued advocacy and strategic planning, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan will play crucial roles on this path.

For background and further information on the Fondazione MAIRE and their ongoing projects to facilitate this transition, visit Fondazione MAIRE.