The IABG team, the leading company for the Global Development Assistance (GDA) programme thematic area on Clean Energy, recently concluded a successful visit to Washington D.C. from October 30 to November 3. During their time there, they engaged with World Bank partners working in the energy sector and various related topics, including energy demand characterisation, analysis of renewable energy potential, and assessment of infrastructure vulnerability.
The visit provided an opportunity for the IABG team to reconnect with World Bank stakeholders involved in projects supported through GDA’s thematic area on Clean Energy. Discussions were centred around reviewing the current progress and charting the next steps for these projects. Additionally, the GDA team took the chance to engage with a broader audience of collaborators, focusing on important topics such as biomass-to-energy and hydrogen investments.
The discussions between the IABG team and the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) of the World Bank held particular significance as they focused on strengthening their cooperation and finding ways to enhance their collaboration through the implementation of complementary activities. The primary goal was to identify the next steps in developing a customised range of tools and services that would meet the specific requirements of the World Bank.
By combining their expertise, IABG and ESMAP colleagues aim to create a suite of products that would not only support the ongoing GDA Clean Energy activity but also have a long-lasting impact beyond its completion. These products are being carefully designed to leverage resources that are in line with the World Bank’s objectives and priorities.
Within these discussions, two specific engagements stood out:
- Multi-risk analyses of transmission network assets in Bangladesh: This component focuses on examining risks associated with flooding, wind, and landslides. The objective is to inform the maintenance and planning of energy investments in the country.
- Rooftop solar potential screening tool in Armenia: Utilising Very High-Resolution (VHR) imagery, this tool aims at identifying the suitability of rooftops for solar power installations. Its purpose is to guide the targeted geographical placement of rooftop solar investments in Armenia.
For each of those tools, a strategy has been defined based on the mobilization of complementary World Bank activities and resources to ensure the operationalization and mainstreaming within the institution.
The IABG team’s visit to Washington D.C. has therefore reinforced their commitment to collaboration and partnership with World Bank stakeholders. By exploring synergies and planning for the future, they are laying the groundwork for enhanced energy sector development and sustainable growth.
The partnership between the GDA and the World Bank underscores their shared commitment to addressing energy challenges and promoting sustainable practices. By working together, they can effectively capitalise on their respective capabilities to devise innovative solutions, support clean energy initiatives, and contribute to global endeavours in addressing the challenges of climate change.
