The Global Energy Districts Program (GEDP) continues strengthening international partnerships to accelerate the development of sustainable energy solutions across different regions of the world. In this context, Cristina Mariaca, GEDP’s International Strategic and Technical Coordinator, recently held a meeting in Algeria with representatives of the African Energy Commission (AFREC), the specialized energy agency of the African Union responsible for promoting energy policies and programs across the continent.
The meeting provided an opportunity to explore new collaboration pathways aimed at strengthening regional capacities, exchanging experiences, and promoting the development of energy districts as an innovative solution to advance the energy transition of African cities, industries, and territories. This collaboration represents an important step toward expanding district energy solutions in regions facing growing challenges related to urbanization, sustainable energy access, and climate resilience.
AFREC plays a strategic role in supporting energy policy development across Africa and works closely with African Union member states to promote more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient energy systems. The organization leads regional initiatives related to energy planning, data access, and integrated strategies to accelerate Africa’s energy transition, in a continent where more than 600 million people still lack reliable access to electricity, according to international organizations.
“International partnerships are essential to expanding knowledge, strengthening local capacities, and accelerating the implementation of sustainable solutions such as energy districts. Africa represents a region with enormous opportunities to develop more efficient and resilient energy models that contribute to the sustainable development of its cities and communities,” said Cristina Mariaca.