Alongside the other Parties to the Paris Agreement, Somalia committed to undertake efforts to triple global renewable power capacity at COP28 in Dubai in 2023. Long-term conflicts have affected the country’s infrastructure and institutions; however, Somalia is determined to accelerate the recovery of its energy sector in a way that ensures a clean and sustainable energy development pathway.

The country is taking significant steps forward by updating its electricity sector legislation and regulation, and redefining key institutions and their functions. However, this process is ongoing, and Somalia is yet to operationalise these structures or establish the necessary enforcement and compliance mechanisms.

This assessment, developed in co-operation with the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources (MoEWR) of Somalia, identifies the key actions required to overcome existing barriers to renewable energy development and expansion, as well as increased energy access and efficiency.

It outlines a series of recommendations for strengthening energy institutions and governance; enhancing energy policy and regulatory frameworks in the renewable energy sector; promoting sustainable development and energy efficiency; strengthening the electricity industry; increasing investments in renewable energy technologies and infrastructure; and building institutional and human capacities.

Report by the International Renewable Energy Agency