International clean energy projects create green skills for marginalised

International clean energy projects have been highlighted by climate charity Ashden, as the shortlist for its annual awards have been announced.

Many of the projects are helping to create green jobs for marginalised communities, with initiatives ranging from agricultural clean energy schemes to projects in humanitarian settings.

Eight out of the 11 organisations listed are in Africa, based in Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Togo, while two are in India and one is in Turkey.

Ashden CEO Harriet Lamb said: ‘Supercharging economies and raising incomes are just two of the many reasons for investing in energy access. But with 940 million people worldwide living without electricity, and 3 billion without safe cooking, it’s clear support for frontline innovators is falling short. A skills and training drought is one major obstacle to progress. 

‘A new global effort is urgently needed which is why we are calling for November’s COP27 climate talks in Egypt to focus on boosting energy access.  

‘Universal access to clean, affordable energy is fundamental to climate justice. Donors and policymakers should act now to get funds flowing to frontline solutions.’

One project, India-based Collectives for Integrated Livelihood Initiative, works to help farmers to swap polluting diesel generators to clean energy, helping to cut bills in half.

The other Indian initiative, Oorja Solutions, sets up and maintains community-led, solar-powered agricultural production hubs in tribal areas.

Turkey’s Imece Initiative trains women refugees in solar engineering to help them advance professionally and to set up electrical systems for displaced people.

While in Africa, programmes include training for young women to become solar technicians in Togo, help for refugees in setting up sola powered wifi hotspots in Kenya and training opportunities in Malawi and Zimbabwe.

Another project in Uganda turns agricultural waste into electricity, clean cooking fuels and organic biofertilisers and another uses microfinance to help communities become more financially sustainable.

Three awards for UK climate innovation are also available as part of the 2022 Ashden Awards, with winners to be announced in Nairobi this October.

Winners can expect to receive grants and business support, while all organisations shortlisted benefit from the publicity generated to form investment and partnership opportunities.

Photo by Kakuma Ventures, Kenya and provided by Ashden