This Energy Policy is the updated version of the 1982 Energy Policy developed by Ecowas aimed to establish effective institutional frameworks and coordinated actions to support energy development, including the creation of dedicated funding mechanisms, promotion of renewable and alternative energy sources, environmental protection, workforce development, improved energy access to reduce rural–urban migration, and the exploration of both traditional and advanced energy solutions. ECOWAS, through its updated Energy Policy, aims to achieve the Vision of a community with access to modern, affordable, reliable and sustainable energy services to improve living standards and socio-economic development. The Policy is based on the recognition that access to modern, affordable, and clean energy is essential for improving living standards and achieving universal access, while promoting sustainable development, environmental protection, energy efficiency, and climate action. It also emphasizes gender equality, stronger governance and performance in the sector, enhanced energy security through regional resources and cooperation, continuous capacity building, and the mobilisation of public and private financing to support implementation. The Policy sets out the following six strategic objectives (1) improve the governance and performance of the energy sector, through the harmonisation of policy and pricing frameworks, enhanced energy information systems, and capacity building; (2) ensure universal access to adequate, affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity services, by strengthening the planning and implementation of electrification programmes, particularly in rural areas; (3) enhance the security, reliability, and quality of energy supply, through the continued development of the regional electricity market, as well as expanded oil and gas infrastructure and regulatory harmonisation; (4) diversify the energy mix by increasing the integration of renewable energy, natural gas, nuclear power, and other clean energy sources, including hydrogen, notably by transforming Member States’ energy systems and expanding the share of renewables; (5) promote energy efficiency and conservation, by reducing technical losses in electricity networks, applying minimum efficiency standards, conducting energy audits, improving biomass carbonisation processes, and introducing labelling for end-use equipment such as improved cookstoves; and (6) expand access to modern and clean cooking energy, by promoting the adoption of clean fuels and alternative energy sources. Achieving the Policy Vision requires coordinated regional and national actions focused on improving governance, transparency, and sector performance to reduce costs and attract financing, particularly from private sources, while also strengthening environmental and social management and promoting gender equality. It further involves developing energy infrastructure to expand access to affordable, clean energy, increase the share of renewable energy and efficiency, enhance supply security and reliability, optimize the use of natural gas and petroleum products, and protect forest resources, supported by strong financing, coordination, and monitoring mechanisms.
2023-01-01