The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the establishment of a $75 million Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Facility aimed at advancing clean energy solutions and fostering sustainable development across the region.

Revealed by ECOWAS President Dr. Omar Touray on December 12, the facility will operate through a blended finance structure, providing grants, loans, and guarantees via competitive calls for proposals. The initiative is designed to support renewable energy projects and energy efficiency measures, addressing critical energy challenges in West Africa.

“This new blended finance facility, with an initial funding of $75 million, aims to deliver clean energy solutions for the ECOWAS region through competitive, demand-driven calls for proposals,” Dr. Touray stated.

A major component of the initiative is its role in financing the 6,800-kilometer Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, which will have a capacity to transport 30 billion cubic feet of natural gas annually. The pipeline is envisioned as a cornerstone of regional energy infrastructure, with potential expansion to European markets.

The facility will also support food security efforts, targeting an increase in rice production. Investments ranging from $15 million to $19 million are planned to improve storage, milling, and mechanization, with the goal of producing 33 million tons of milled rice.

In addition to energy and agriculture, Dr. Touray emphasized the importance of regional integration projects. These include implementing harmonized aviation charges, introducing affordable tariffs, and enhancing the management of shared water resources and infrastructure.

The Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Facility reflects ECOWAS’s commitment to addressing regional challenges through strategic investments in sustainable energy, food security, and connectivity. By advancing these priorities, the organization aims to foster economic growth and resilience across its member states.