COVID-19 has dramatically changed the socioeconomic context for clean energy transitions worldwide. With the global economy heading into a recession and possibly a financial crash, strengthening health systems, minimizing job losses, preventing supply chain breakdowns, and managing return of business to the “new normal” are immediate priorities for governments. Simultaneously, government actions and pledges remain insufficient to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement and how electricity is produced and consumed remains key deliverable in supporting climate change reversal measures. 

In this context, EU GCC Clean Energy Technology Network is organising the webinar COVID-19 Recovery: Accelerating Energy Transitions in EU & GCC Power Sector which will facilitate dialogue amongst businesses and governments from the EU and the GCC nations on the recommendations of a Policy Brief titled:‘Covid-19 recovery: How the G20 can accelerate sustainable energy transitions in the power sector by supporting the private sector’, issued by T20 Saudi Arabia. The Policy Brief outlines recommendations on how governments can support the private sector to deliver economic growth, create jobs, and support climate action. The proposed measures involve (1) coordinating on sustainable recovery measures in the G20, (2) expanding renewable energy generation, (3) accurately reflecting environmental externalities and ensuring just transitions in the fossil-fuel sector, and (4) promoting efficient electricity consumption and faster electrification.

The event webpage with more information and the registration link is available here.