Cairo Sustainable Energy Week

Event Schedule Join Us at CSEW

Oct 1 - 3 , 2024 Cairo, Egypt

Venue – The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo

Day 1 - Tuesday, 1st of October

09:30 - 10:30

Room 1

Opening Ceremony

Room 2

Group Photo and Exhibition Opening

10:30 - 11.30

11:30 - 12.30

The focus will be on the importance of regional and international collaboration in promoting sustainable energy and climate neutrality in the MENA region. It will explore how partnerships can enhance renewable energy development, knowledge sharing, and policy alignment. Participants will learn about successful cooperation frameworks and challenges, gaining insights from case studies and regional initiatives aiming at tripling renewable energy capacities (including MEDSEC initiative of 1TW by 2030 in the Mediterranean) and doubling energy efficiency efforts by 2030 to strengthen cooperation and accelerate the energy transition and achieve net-zero by 2050.

15 min: Collaboration in promoting sustainable energy and climate

15 min: Coffee Break and Networking

12:45 - 14:00

This session will examine the modernization of energy grids and the adoption of smart energy systems to boost efficiency, reliability, sustainability, and increased shares of renewables. In the same context, RES4Africa will present the outcomes of the upcoming policy paper regarding sustainable electrification in Africa.

During this panel, we will discuss the implications of the carbon trade market and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), focusing on its economic and trade impacts, compliance strategies, and potential to promote low-carbon practices and competitiveness. We will examine how exports from MENA countries like Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt—major exporters of steel, fertilizers, cement, and potentially green hydrogen— will be affected by this EU regulation.Emphasizing that CBAM should be seen as a driver for clean energy, we will highlight its critical role in the energy transition, it’s mitigation strat egies. While CBAM solutions are challenging and costly, they exist and support the development of green technologies.

14:00 - 15:00 : Lunch Break and networking

15:00- 16:00

This theme will focus on the opportunities and challenges of electrification and grid interconnection, with a particular emphasis on the MENA region’s role in supporting these efforts.

This session sets out to introduce IRENA’s Regional Energy Transition Outlooks (focusing on the one for North Africa) which provide quantitative scenarios for climate-compatible energy transformation by 2050. They depict sustainable development pathways for future energy systems and showcase the importance of international collaboration to advance socio-economic development and industrialization, fueled by energy systems based on renewables and local value chains. The objective is to maximize the socio-economic benefits of the transition in a just and inclusive way, while orienting policy and investments towards resilient and renewable-based energy systems.

16:00 - 17:00

This session will explore the strategies, policies and regulations impacting clean energy development in the MENA region. It will examine local, national, and regional regulatory frameworks, highlighting incentives like subsidies and tax benefits. It will talk about compliance challenges, strategies to navigate them, and the impact of international agreements like the Paris Agreement on regional energy policies and future regulatory changes.

This theme explores the critical energy-water nexus in the MENA region, addressing water scarcity’s impact on energy security and water-efficient energy production methods. Topics include desalination, wastewater treatment, and integrated policies for sustainable resource management. It highlights synergies like using desalination for renewable energy storage and Green Ammonia production and fertiliz ers that play a major role in food security, emphasizing the social benefits and regional resilience.

17:00 - 18:00

This session will focus on hybrid renewable systems – which combine a primary renewable energy source with a secondary source of generation or storage – as a viable and cost-efficient solution to improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in the provision of electricity supply.

Networking and business meetings

Day 2 - Wednesday, 2st of October

9:30 - 10:30

Room 1

This theme examines the development of green hydrogen corridors, which are networks of green hydrogen infrastructure that facilitate cross-border trade and partnerships. It looks at the logistics,regulatory challenges, and economic benefits of establishing these corridors. The focus is on creating seamless supply chains and fostering international cooperation to enable the efficient movement of hydrogen across regions.

Room 2

S1-BF: OPENING SESSION

10:30 - 11:30

This theme examines the development of green hydrogen corridors, which are networks of green hydrogen infrastructure that facilitate cross-border trade and partnerships. It looks at the logistics, regulatory challenges, and economic benefits of establishing these corridors. The focus is on creating seamless supply chains and fostering international cooperation to enable the efficient movement of hydrogen across regions.

This session will explore financing sustainable energy projects in the MENA region, focusing on models such as sustainable energy funds, green bonds, venture capital, and public-private partnerships (PPPs). We will delve into the dynamics of PPPs, including their benefits, challenges, and successful case studies. The session will also discuss the role of financial institutions in supporting decentralized renewable energy and energy efficiency, particularly in buildings and appliances. Participants will gain insights into the investment landscape for sustainable energy, including barriers, risks, and mitigation strategies. By examining case studies of successful green finance initiatives and PPPs, the session will highlight best practices and lessons learned for stakeholders seeking to navigate the complexities of sustainable energy financing and implementation in the region.

30 min : Coffee Break and networking

12:00- 13:00

The session will feature experts in energy transition and intends to explore the following aspects:
• The hydrogen economy: How to set conditions for a just hydrogen transition.
• To assess the environmental impacts associated with the hydrogen supply chain.
• To analyze the implications for energy and water access, labor regimes, and vulnerable livelihoods.
• To explore the role of hydrogen diplomacy in shaping global energy policies and partnerships.
• Call to action for inclusive and equitable approaches to hydrogen development and deployment.

Presentation of various funding mechanisms available for climate mitigation and adaptation projects. Representatives from major financial institutions to discuss opportunities and challenges in securing finance for regional climate initiatives, emphasizing innovative and accessible funding solutions.

13:00- 14:00

This theme highlights the latest advancements and innovations in hydrogen production technologies. It includes discussions on cutting-edge research, emerging technologies, and breakthrough developments that are driving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of hydrogen production. Topics may cover advancements in electrolysis, thermochemical processes, biotechnological methods, and other innovative approaches that contribute to the sustainable and scalable production of hydrogen.

Highlight the crucial role of private sector banks and financial institutions in financing the energy transition and climate action. Discussion on strategies, initiatives, and partnerships to support sustainable energy projects and enhancing regional climate resilience.

14:00- 15:00 : Lunch Break and networking

15:00 - 16:00

This session will explore and identify actionable strategies that can accelerate Egypt’s transition to a sustainable energy future through the integration of green power and green hydrogen technologies. The session will aim to foster collaboration among key stakeholders, including industry leaders, financial institutions, and policy makers, to create a roadmap that supports Egypt’s ambitious energy and climate goals.

Focus on the role of corporate companies and Chambers of Commerce in promoting energy transition and sustainable development in the region. Discussions on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, and impact investment as economic opportunities for growth and job creation. Examine how Chambers of Commerce can support the energy transition by fostering collaboration between businesses, policymakers, and other stakeholders.

16:00 - 17:00

We will emphasize the role of startups and innovation in advancing sustainable energy solutions in the MENA region. It will explore how entrepreneurial ventures and innovative technologies can address the region’s energy challenges and contribute to a greener future. Participants will learn about the latest trends in energy innovation, such as clean tech startups, renewable energy technologies, and energy efficiency solutions. The theme will also cover the challenges startups face, including access to funding, market barriers, and regulatory hurdles. By showcasing successful startups and innovative projects, the discussions will provide insights into how the MENA region can foster a vibrant ecosystem for sustainable energy innovation.

30 min : Coffee Break

17:30 - 18:30

Summarize the key takeaways from the forum, highlighting successful initiatives, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts discussed throughout the day. It will emphasize the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation among regional stakeholders to achieve a sustainable and climate-resilient future for the Mediterranean region. Next step to COP 29.

Day 3 - Thuersday, 3st of October

9:15 - 9:45

Room 1

Room 2

9:30 - 10:15

We will emphasize the critical importance of energy efficiency across various sectors in the MENA region, including buildings, transportation, and industry. during this session we will explore innovative technologies and best practices that enhance energy efficiency, with a focus on the role of artificial intelligence. Discussions will cover advancements in energy-efficient building designs and retrofitting techniques that can significantly reduce energy consumption. We will also highlight smart transportation systems and the role of electric vehicles in promoting energy efficiency. Addition ally, we will delve into industrial process optimization, the integration of automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to achieve substantial energy savings. The theme will also address demand management, energy sufficiency, and the concept of sovereignty in the context of energy efficiency.

10:30 - 11:30

This session explores the current efforts aiming at catalyzing a policy transformation process to shift to climate-friendly cooling through the development of National Cooling Action Plans(NCAPs). It will discuss the need to build the capacity of national authorities and facilitate the development of NCAPs by developing a comprehensive NCAP methodology tailored to the regional context with flexibility to incorporate national policies and strategies, and linkages to Nationally Determined Contributions and Kigali Implementation Plans. The session will highlight how to address key cooling sectors, such as space cooling, food cold-chain, healthcare cold-chain, mobile air conditioning and industrial process cooling.

10:00 - 11:20

11:20 - 11:30

This workshop represents a step towards a more equitable and sustainable energy future in the MENA region by empowering women to play an active role in the energy transition. The involvement of diverse stakeholders and the interactive format will ensure that the discussion is rich, inclusive, and action oriented

Signing Cooperation Framework

Room 2

9:30 - 10:15

We will emphasize the critical importance of energy efficiency across various sectors in the MENA region, including buildings, transportation, and industry. during this session we will explore innovative technologies and best practices that enhance energy efficiency, with a focus on the role of artificial intelligence. Discussions will cover advancements in energy-efficient building designs and retrofitting techniques that can significantly reduce energy consumption. We will also highlight smart transportation systems and the role of electric vehicles in promoting energy efficiency. Addition ally, we will delve into industrial process optimization, the integration of automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to achieve substantial energy savings. The theme will also address demand management, energy sufficiency, and the concept of sovereignty in the context of energy efficiency.

10:30 - 11:30

This session explores the current efforts aiming at catalyzing a policy transformation process to shift to climate-friendly cooling through the development of National Cooling Action Plans(NCAPs). It will discuss the need to build the capacity of national authorities and facilitate the development of NCAPs by developing a comprehensive NCAP methodology tailored to the regional context with flexibility to incorporate national policies and strategies, and linkages to Nationally Determined Contributions and Kigali Implementation Plans. The session will highlight how to address key cooling sectors, such as space cooling, food cold-chain, healthcare cold-chain, mobile air conditioning and industrial process cooling.

30 min : Coffee Break and networking

12:00 - 13:00

This session is dedicated to hold a gathering of RENEW MENA partners in Egypt (RENEW MENA - Egypt Chapter). It aims at introducing RENEW MENA to wider audience from the Region attending CSEW, exploring the potential partners and discussing Collaboration on activities among partners contributing to RENEW Workplan.

During this session we will focus on the critical role of essential minerals in the development and deployment of renewable energy technologies. It will explore the importance of minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements in the production of batteries, wind turbines, and solar panels. The theme will address the challenges of sourcing these minerals sustainably, including environmental impacts, geopolitical considerations, and supply chain issues. Participants will learn about strategies for securing a stable supply of essential minerals, such as recycling, developing alternative materials, and promoting responsible mining practices. The goal is to understand how to support the growth of renewable energy while minimizing the ecological and social impacts of mineral extraction.

13:00- 14:00 : Lunch Break and networking

14:00 - 15:00

We will investigates how biodiversity intersects with su tainable energy in the MENA region. It discusses designing renewable energy projects to safeguard biodiversity, the environmental effects of energy technologies, and methods to reduce harm to ecosystems. Participants will explore integrating biodiversity into energy planning via habitat conservation and wildlife-friendly infrastructure, supported by case studies demonstrating effective harmony between nature and energy goals.

This theme will explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization in accelerating the energy transition in the MENA region. It will cover how AI and digital technologies can optimize energy production, distribution, and consumption, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Participants will learn about the latest developments in AI-driven energy management systems, predictive maintenance, and smart grid technologies. The theme will also address the challenges of integrating digital solutions into the energy sector, such as data security, interoperability, and workforce training. Case studies of successful AI and digitalization projects will be shared to highlight best practices and lessons learned, demonstrating how these technologies can drive the energy transition in the MENA region.

15:00- 16:00

This session will challenge the prevailing notion that the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is exclusively blessed with abundant solar energy. We will explore the untapped potential of wind energy in the region, identifying key opportunities and challenges for large-scale deployment. Speakers will share their experiences in developing projects in Egypt and will identify and suggest key policy areas that require further development.

CSEW Declaration and Closing Ceremony

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