Sustainable Energy For All Charrettes

Mapping the Critical Path

SEforALL convened a set of charrettes from 18th to 20th June 2019, in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Using the principles of design thinking, the charrettes focused on intensive inquiry, challenging assumptions and bringing new perspectives with the expectation that together, participants are able to identify specific pathways and detailed next steps and actions. As with all events convened by SEforALL, the charrettes are diverse and inclusive.

Each of the charrettes brought together small groups of participants from a wide range of backgrounds, nationalities and sectors to address a specific question which has been derived from tracking data and evidence of progress or lack thereof. Based on SEforALL’s assessment of progress, specific focus was on the challenges of financing energy transitions central to the success of SDG 7 and on gaps and challenges in the data and evidence used to drive action.

The charrettes were held at the EYE Filmmuseum, an iconic building on the water in Amsterdam that affords a unique setting to encourage bold thinking.

The SEforALL charrettes:

• Conducted intensive inquiry into specific questions resulting in defined pathways and actions for participants to achieve greater speed and scale
• Continued to expand the movement around achieving sustainable energy for all

The charrettes provide input and momentum for the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Summit in September, and for the High-level sessions on SDGs and Financing for Development at the UN General Assembly to be held at the same time.

Following consultations, four questions have been identified for intensive inquiry. Each question was the focus of one charrette over 18^th and 19^th June. We interrogated how to ensure investors, government officials and development partners have the data and evidence needed to improve decision-making and how to accelerate financial flows within and to countries where the biggest energy access gaps exist.

Each charrette identified a critical pathway forward and specific actions, partners and timelines for results to be achieved.

On 20^th June, SEforALL partners used the day to build on the work undertaken during the charrettes and move their own work forward in accelerators and other grouping, with a focus on speed and scale.

It is now critically important to focus on where we can unlock fast action and work together to speed up progress to meet Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), sustainable energy for all.