Themed ‘From Policy to Power: Unlocking Net Metering and Distributed Solar PV Systems’, the meeting focused on accelerating climate action and energy transition through innovative solar solutions.
Funded by the Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the MRV for Climate Action Programme is a $20 million initiative implemented through NovaSphere in four West African countries: The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, and Togo.
It is a bilateral support for climate action with implementation and governance in the four countries. The Programme has several transformative projects that aim to help partner nations develop strategies to track, finance, and implement greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction measures while promoting sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions.
A key focus of the meeting was the Net Metering Sub-Pilot Project, which seeks to harness distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems as a sustainable energy solution. These systems will allow businesses and households to generate their own electricity, reducing dependence on the national grid while promoting energy independence and financial savings.
To support this initiative, the MRV for Climate Action Programme has committed CAD$1 million for a 12-month pilot phase. Funds will be allocated progressively, in collaboration with National Focal Points and NovaSphere, ensuring long-term sustainability.
The programme aligns with both The Gambia’s and Liberia’s National Evergreen Roadmaps, which aim to strengthen climate governance, enhance MRV systems, mobilise climate finance, and accelerate national climate action plans.
Lamin Camara, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines, in his opening statement, reiterated that the shift towards renewable energy is no longer an option but a necessity.
“The Net Metering Sub-Pilot Project is a cornerstone of our national strategy to achieve energy sustainability and climate resilience,” he stated. “This initiative empowers communities by enabling individuals and businesses to generate their own clean energy while reducing strain on our national grid.”
He further stressed that as a ministry they are keenly aware of the challenges that come with implementing such a transformative project.
From technical obstacles in grid integration to regulatory considerations and the need for extensive capacity building, the project demands collaboration from a wide range of stakeholders.
Collective knowledge, experience, and resources will be key to overcoming these challenges, he said, adding that after a successful implementation of the pilot phase, the project could be expanded.
Dr Mamma Sawaneh, MRV Solar PV Pilot Lead Coordinator for The Gambia said that the project represents a critical milestone in The Gambia’s Climate Action Programme. The integration of solar PV systems and net metering has the potential to transform our energy landscape, benefiting both consumers and the national grid.
“Our discussions today are essential in ensuring smooth project implementation. Together, we must address technical feasibility, grid integration, and regulatory frameworks to make this initiative a long-term success.” He said
Dr William Jabang, Chief Director of Operations, University of The Gambia, representing the Vice-Chancellor of the University of The Gambia, emphasised the university’s role in research and community impact, stating: “Energy is the foundation of daily life, and the University of The Gambia is proud to be part of this initiative. We encourage participants and experts to share knowledge and experiences that will not only benefit The Gambia but also contribute to global climate solutions.”
Co-Director Lisa Marroquin of the MRV for Climate Action Programme, Novasphere, provided a broader perspective on the programme’s long-term vision, highlighting that the initiative is part of a $20 million climate action project running until March 2026.
She said Liberia aims to reach 30% renewable energy-based electricity by 2030, including residential PV systems, while The Gambia focuses on expanding renewable energy, particularly PV, to achieve its conditional emissions reduction target of 50% emissions reduction within the next five years.
She said: “Despite challenges in technical capacity and governance, we are confident in the collaboration and commitment of our partners. This meeting is a crucial step toward developing a robust framework for sustainable energy solutions.”
