By Martin Chemhere
Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states are forging a collaborative path towards a sustainable energy future with the establishment of the SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE). Eng. B. Munyaradzi from the Ministry of Energy and Power Development recently elaborated on the significance of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) underpinning this crucial regional initiative.
Speaking to stakeholders, Eng. Munyaradzi emphasized that SACREEE represents a pivotal step in addressing the pressing energy challenges facing the SADC region. The centre’s primary objective is to significantly boost access to modern energy services for millions of citizens across the member states. This will be achieved through a concerted effort to promote the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies and the implementation of energy-efficient practices.
The MoA signifies a unified commitment from SADC nations to leverage their collective resources and expertise in the pursuit of a cleaner and more secure energy landscape. SACREEE will serve as a central hub for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the facilitation of regional projects in the renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors. This collaborative approach is expected to accelerate the deployment of solar, wind, hydro, and other renewable energy sources, thereby diversifying the region’s energy mix and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
Furthermore, Eng. Munyaradzi highlighted the centre’s focus on market-based approaches. SACREEE will actively work to create an enabling environment for private sector investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. This includes supporting the development of favourable regulatory frameworks, promoting innovative financing mechanisms, and fostering entrepreneurship in the clean energy sector. By engaging the market, SACREEE aims to ensure the long-term sustainability and scalability of renewable energy solutions across the SADC region.
The establishment of SACREEE is particularly timely as the region grapples with the impacts of climate change and the growing demand for energy to fuel economic development. By enhancing energy security through diversified and cleaner energy sources, SADC member states aim to build more resilient economies and improve the livelihoods of their populations. The centre is envisioned as a catalyst for innovation, driving the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and fostering regional cooperation in research and development.
Eng. Munyaradzi reiterated the Ministry’s strong support for SACREEE and its potential to transform the energy sector within the SADC region. He called for continued collaboration among member states, the private sector, and development partners to ensure the successful operationalization and long-term impact of the centre. The establishment of SACREEE marks a significant milestone in SADC’s journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future powered by clean and efficient energy.