–part of ‘Just Energy Transition Seed Funding Initiative’ launched by UN to further advance low-carbon development locally

THE United Nations (UN) in Guyana, with funding from the Joint Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Fund, launched the Just Energy Transition (JET) Seed Funding Initiative at UN House in Georgetown, on Monday.
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.
According to a press release, 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 initiative, three solar-powered EV charging stations will be installed in strategic locations in Regions Five, Six 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 emphasised 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 specialised skills, we are fostering a workforce that is prepared for the transition to a green economy.”

Head of IOM Guyana, Eraina Yaw said: “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.”
The official added: “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.”

UN Resident Coordinator, Jean Kamau said: “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).”

The JET initiative will support the integration of clean energy solutions into the national economy, contributing to Guyana’s goal of achieving 80 per cent renewable energy in the electricity grid by 2040.