IEA at COP27: A just and equitable energy and water transition in a changing climate

Egypt Time, GMT +2: 10:30 AM-11:30 AM

Climate change is here and now, and energy transition away from fossil fuels is at the heart of climate solutions. Energy transition involves moving from fossil fuel to renewable energy sources to reduce GHG emissions. Although the need for energy transitions is widely recognized, the role of water in those transitions needs more attention. In this context, just energy and water transitions are strategies that enable these systemic changes to happen in fair and equitable ways to ensure that the costs and benefits of climate action are distributed equitably.

This session will explore why socioeconomic and institutional contexts are key to harnessing the potential of the water, energy and climate nexus and ensuring that solutions are delivered in a fair and equitable manner for everyone. It is critical to understand these contexts within which the Water, Energy and Climate nexus operates, and consider the policy/institutional settings and socioeconomic factors when developing solutions - maximizing multi-stakeholder inter-sectoral collaborations will be essential. Studies on the importance of water for energy supply, including renewable energy, agricultural water use, and wastewater reuse will be used to explore some of these social-economic and governance issues being applied to combat climate change. The discussion will also include our partners’ experience in engaging community leaders, business equity partners, and practitioners working towards system justice to explore what a just recovery would look like.