‘E2BN FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY PLAN’

NEW YORK, USA - The Kingdom of Eswatini will need more than an estimated E2.2 billion (US$150 million) to roll out its renewable energy long-term strategic plan.

This would cater for only part of several other climate change initiatives that the country has embarked upon that require funding. This was disclosed by His Majesty the King at the United Nations Climate Action Summit on Monday afternoon. Eswatini was one of a few countries selected to present on their country climate action programmes under the theme; “A race we can win, a race we must win.’

The King was asked to intervene on ‘cutting GHG emissions now with cooling and energy efficiency.’ He said the country had developed national energy strategic plans for proper and adequate development of our renewable capacity and energy efficient systems. “By 2030, we envisage that more than 90 per cent of our population will have access to electricity through vigorous renewable energy generation systems,” he said.

Increase

He told the gathering that the country had managed to increase access to electricity for the rural population by up to about 70%. “The kingdom plans to increase its renewable energy production to acceptable levels of its mix by 2030.” He said this would be coupled with an increase in efficient systems to ensure total access for all citizens. He further explained that almost 25 per cent of energy needs in Eswatini came from hydro power which was highly impacted by climate change. “The country wishes, therefore, to strengthen its ability to harness energy from the sun with appropriate support for capacity building and technology,” he said.  He added that the private sector was also playing its role in emission reduction by adopting a new approach through solely using natural components that have zero global warming and no ozone depleting potential.

The King said for the climate change agenda to have impact, there was a need for developed and developing countries to join hands in this endeavour. He urged all developed countries to honour their commitments under the Paris Agreement towards the Green Climate Fund.

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