Report of the Ad Hoc Expert Group meeting on sustainable energy : a framework for new and renewable energy in Southern Africa, 7-9 november 2005, Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

A meeting of experts in renewable energy policy development and regional integration took place in Lusaka, Zambia from 7 to 9 November, 2005 to consider a sub regional framework to harmonise new and renewable energy policies in Southern Africa. Th e priority areas for the promotion of renewable energy in the region identifi ed by experts include – research and development, productisation and commercialization of research results, promotion of indigenous knowledge systems in renewable energy technologies, community participation in project development, gender, and enhancement of linkages between renewable energy development with other sectors in the sub regional economy. Th e sub regional policy framework for the renewables sector provides a template to align national policies in the sector to the SADC vision of increasing the supply of aff ordable energy or modern energy services to the majority of Southern Africa’s citizens in order to alleviate poverty.