Bio-energy experts calls for formulation of policies

Bio-energy experts have called for the formulation of sound policies and strategies in a bid to promote the creation of a vibrant and sustainable modern bio-energy in ECOWAS member countries. 

These included the establishment of policy coherence, sharing of experiences, Co-ordination between institutions as well as regulatory process.

The call was made as part of recommendations at the ECOWAS bio-energy forum held in Bamako, Mali, from the 19th to 22nd March 2012.

The meeting was organized by the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), based in Praia, Cape Verde, in collaboration with partners. It was attended by stakeholders from the region’s Ministries of Energy, Agriculture and the Environment as well as observers from the Global Bio-Energy Partnership (GBEP).

The meeting also urged member states to embark on resource assessment and planning.  These include mapping, resource inventory, water management, rapid management methodologies as well as threats posed to the availability of resources.  The experts also called for the sharing and transferring of communication tools in ECOWAS member countries as well as putting in place knowledge management system.  The forum also recommended the creation of an ECREEE database to promote bio-energy projects in the region.

The experts stressed the need for capacity building in member countries to increase awareness among all stakeholders as well as the reinforcement of existing structures.  On the issue of financing mechanisms and resource mobilization, the forum urged member countries to identify barriers to access finances, capitalize on innovative financing experiences as well as mobilization of local finances.