Background and History:

Given the Arab region’s renewable energy great potentials, increasing renewable energy share in energy mix represents the most viable solution to meet the rising energy demand. Also, more efficient use of energy and renewable energy sources exploitation will enhance the Arab region’s chances to eradicate poverty, improve access to water, food, healthcare, education, and create jobs. Sustainable energy share in the energy mix contributes to a sustainable economic growth as a top strategic priority for Arab leaders.

In its attempt to address this important topic, the Executive Bureau of the Arab Ministerial Council for Electricity has issued a decision (No. 192) which stipulates holding ”a forum on funding mechanisms and financial incentives to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency”.

The first forum was held in April 2012. It was attended by high-level governmental officials, field experts and international organization representatives. It focused on issues that directly affect the financing of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.

Following on the results of the first forum and based on the challenging discourse surrounding RE and EE job creations and the related role of SMEs, the second forum tackled means to enhance the Role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Promoting Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency.