South Africa’s proposed Africa Energy Efficiency Facility could emerge as a defining achievement of the country’s G20 Presidency – a bold, continent-led initiative that embodies African leadership on the global stage and turns commitments into action.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Chief of Mitigation Branch: Climate Division, Hongpeng Lei – who delivered remarks at a side event at the Energy Transitions Working Group meeting this week, applauded South Africa’s “vision of placing energy efficiency at the core of the… G20 energy agenda”.
“This gathering is more than a technical forum. It is a political and strategic turning point. It is a moment where Africa steps forward with confidence and clarity to shift to a legacy of practical climate action rooted in equity, innovation and resilience.
“We are here to lay the foundations for what could become a defining outcome of South Africa’s G20 Presidency – the African Energy Efficiency Facility. This initiative reflects the shared priorities of the G20 Energy Transitions Working Group. Affordability, energy access, climate resilience and inclusive growth… all begin with efficiency.”
Hongpeng noted that South African leadership on the facility “references the G20 evolution from high level priorities to… regional action”.
“By the time we reach COP30 in Brazil, it could stand as a model on how the G20 delivers community, credibility and concrete solutions.
“This facility, proudly championed by South Africa and the African Union and supported by UNEP is… a long-term platform to mobilise finance… technical assistance and skill up the efficiency solutions across the continent.
“It will serve as a strategic G20 legacy initiative. One that reflects the ethos of this Presidency, Africa led, globally supported and designed to deliver results where it matters the most,” Hongpeng said.
The UNEP representative noted that energy efficiency is the most equitable pass way to reduce emissions, expand energy access and ensuring energy security.
“But it is not just a numbers game. It is about development, dignity and delivery.
“We have an opportunity and responsibility to ensure that this facility becomes more than a concept. Let it be the enduring symbol of what this G20 Presidency stands for – African solutions for global challenges built on equity, innovation and partnerships.
“We call on G20 members, development banks and the African partners to secure predictable and ethical financing for this facility. Let the message be clear: Africa is not waiting, Africa is leading. Let us rise to the moment, deliver a legacy worthy of this G20,” Hongpeng concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
