REN21 Academy 2018 was held on November 19 – 21, 2018 in Berlin Germany. As part of the programme, high-level officials from EU and the African region and business representatives from EU and Africa discussed the pivotal role of inter-regional cooperation and focused on further developing political and economic ties between the EU and Africa. This Joint High-Level Opening Plenary marked the opening of REN21 Academy and Renewable Energy and Efficiency Week (REEW).

The theme of REN21 Academy this year was “Energy Systems for the Future”. The Academy sessions we designed to allow the REN21 Community to meet and discuss how to accelerate the energy transformation, by sharing perspectives, asking tough questions, innovating together and dreaming the future. For three days, discussions were well guided by experts looking at key topics and debating with participants, highlighting critical issues, sharing experiences from varied perspectives, engaging in strategic conversation around proposed renewable energy solutions, and gaining new knowledge. Sessions were developed around the principle that, by listening to diverse viewpoints and participating in the discussion, the collective intelligence of the group is maximized, resulting in new and innovative approaches.

EACREEE Sustainable Energy Expert, Mr. Fred Ishugah participated as a panelist in the “Regional Energy Centres” workshop session. During his speech, Mr. Ishugah shared the current trends and updates related to the East African Community renewable energy and energy efficiency policy.