Just Energy Transition Seed Funding Initiative to Advance Low-Carbon Development launched

Spearheaded under the UN's broader commitment to advancing sustainable development, the initiative marks a significant milestone in Guyana's transition to clean energy and aligns with the nation's Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.

The initiative will support national efforts to expand renewable energy capacity and promote sustainable mobility. Technical and policy support will be provided by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

Under the iniitative, three solar-powered EV charging stations will be installed in strategic locations in regions 5, 6 and 10. Additionally, a technical training programme will be launched to equip local professionals with the skills needed to maintain and expand Guyana's renewable energy infrastructure. By fostering an inclusive approach, the programme aims to empower youth, women, and marginalised groups, ensuring equitable access to the opportunities created by the shift to sustainable energy.

Nadira Balram, UNDP’s Officer-in-Charge emphasized the transformative impact of this initiative, stating “The anticipated impact of this initiative is far-reaching. This initiative will create jobs and new economic opportunities. By equipping a new generation of technicians with specialized skills, we are fostering a workforce that is prepared for the transition to a green economy.”

“Our work on Migration, Environment and Climate Change (or Climate Action), both globally and in the Caribbean supports human capacity/resource building for the energy transition,” stated Eraina Yaw, Head of IOM Guyana. “Some of those trained will be equipped to earn a living by training others on these subjects, in a climate where the need for this type of training is increasing,” Yaw added.

"By strengthening institutions, fostering innovation, and integrating sustainability in regulations, this programme directly supports Guyana's Nationally Determined Contributions under the UN Climate Promise. We are accelerating progress on SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)," said Jean Kamau, UN Resident Coordinator.

The JET initiative will support the integration of clean energy solutions into the national economy, contributing to Guyana’s goal of achieving 80% renewable energy in the electricity grid by 2040. As Guyana continues to experience rapid economic growth, initiatives such as the JET Seed Funding Programme are essential for ensuring that development remains sustainable, inclusive, and climate resilient.

About the Joint SDG Fund

The Joint SDG Fund supports countries to accelerate their progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to deliver on the commitment of the 2030 Agenda to leave no one behind, providing a new generation of Resident Coordinators (RCs) and United Nations Country Teams (UNCTs) with a critical instrument to incentivise the adoption of new solutions for longer-term sustainability.