Energy-efficient cities are key to promoting a low-carbon future in the MENA region. In particular, reducing energy consumption for heating, cooling and lighting of buildings is an integral part of municipal strategies to achieve the climate goals.

Cities in the MENA region have already made significant progress in adopting and implementing climate action, but local authorities often lack autonomy in policy and funding to strategically advance energy efficiency programmes. Furthermore, challenges related to the lack of awareness of the importance of energy conservation; inefficient appliances and equipment (in industries and lighting/heating systems); and lack of energy efficiency building codes and other regulations hinder achieving energy efficiency.

Against this background, the second Connective Cities learning process for the MENA region is dedicated to the topic of energy efficiency in municipal responsibility. The event will focus on the following topics: 

• Energy management
• Domestic renewable energy production
• Engagement of stakeholders in energy efficiency programs

The Connective Cities Dialogue event, scheduled online from 18 to 20 May, promotes the exchange of expertise and good practices in planning and implementing energy efficiency projects in cities in the MENA region. It is aimed at experts from the MENA countries as well as interested experts from Germany.

The deadline for application is 15th April 2021. Please find more information in our Call for Participants (pdf)

For applications and queries from interested experts, please contact:

Dr. Muna Shalan
GIZ Network Coordinator Connective Cities for MENA
muna.shalan(at)giz.de

Alice Balbo
Connective Cities Project Manager at the German Association of Cities
alice.balbo(at)staedtetag.de