EU grants energy aid to African, Caribbean & Pacific countries

The European Commission on Wednesday agreed to allocate 200 million euros (295 million U.S. dollars) to the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States to help them gain more access to sustainable and affordable energy services.

This was the second phase of the ACP-EU Energy Facility under the 10th European Development Fund for the period 2009-2013. By focusing on renewable energy solutions and energy efficiency measures, the ACP-EU led project supplements measures already taken to fight against climate change

"If we are going to see real economic and social development for the world's poorest, there must be access to reliable energy services," said Karel De Gucht, European Commissioner for Development.

The second phase will co-finance projects to increase access to improved energy services for the rural poor in ACP countries. In line with the fight against climate change, the Energy Facility will give priority to projects encouraging the use of renewable energy sources.


Source: Xinhua