Countries are seeking new ways to address complex and interconnected challenges. Reaching the promise of the SDGs requires multisectoral approaches that brings together expertise from a range of perspectives. By harnessing our comparative advantage and working within the context of our respective mandates, we can collectively make significant progress towards achieving the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This diagnostic on access to clean energy is a collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) to jointly address UNDP’s Signature Solution 5 that seeks to work with countries to close the energy access gap.

The UNDCF, together with MAP partner FinMark Trust, commissioned Nova Economics to undertake a market assessment of the energy needs, usage and market potential, focusing on the potential for cleaner off-grid energy solutions across five countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, namely Lesotho, eSwatini, Malawi, Mozambique and Madagascar.

The objective of this study is to provide insight into the potential to develop the market for, and promote access to, cleaner off-grid energy solutions in the selected countries.

This includes insight into the current programmes and initiatives in each market, to assess the current supply and demand for off grid cleaner energy solutions and the scope for partnerships and innovative financing models to move forward the clean energy agenda under SDG 7 as it relates to financial inclusion and inclusive growth.