IRENA-城市可再生能源政策（英文）-2021.5-158页_12mb

Summary of Renewable Energy Policies for Cities: Experiences in China, Uganda and Costa Rica

Core Content

This report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) examines the deployment of renewable energy in medium-sized cities across China, Uganda, and Costa Rica. It highlights the critical role of cities in the global energy transition, given their high energy consumption and economic significance, and emphasizes the need for tailored, context-specific policies to support sustainable energy solutions.

Cities account for 75% of global primary energy consumption and are responsible for 70% of energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, underscoring their pivotal role in addressing climate change and improving air quality. Despite this, most urban energy policies are concentrated in large cities, leaving smaller cities with fewer resources and less visibility in global discussions.

Main Viewpoints

• Cities as energy hubs: Urban areas are essential for energy generation, procurement, regulation, and planning, with their capacity to drive sustainable development and reduce emissions.
• Need for local capacity: Municipalities must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to identify and implement renewable energy solutions that match their unique circumstances.
• Policy frameworks: National policies provide the foundation for local renewable energy initiatives, but city-level action is necessary for effective implementation.
• E-mobility and decarbonisation: Electric mobility is emerging as a key strategy for cities aiming to reduce emissions, particularly in Costa Rica.
• Regional and international support: Collaboration between local governments, private entities, and international organizations plays a crucial role in advancing renewable energy in cities.

Key Information

General Context

• Cities are central to the global energy transition due to their high energy use and economic activity.
• By 2050, 68% of the world's population is expected to live in urban areas, with the fastest growth in low- and middle-income countries.
• 80% of global GDP is generated in cities, making them key actors in sustainable development.
• 98% of cities with over 100,000 inhabitants in low- and middle-income countries fail to meet WHO air quality standards.

Focus on Medium-Sized Cities

• Medium-sized cities (30,000 to 1 million inhabitants) are often overlooked in energy policy discussions despite their significant population and growth rate.
• These cities face unique challenges, including limited access to financing and policy support, and require tailored approaches to promote renewable energy.

Case Studies

The report includes six case studies from three countries:

China: Chongli District and Tongli Town

• Chongli District: Focused on renewable energy deployment for the 2022 Winter Olympics, leveraging solar and wind energy.
• Tongli Town: Demonstrated the use of solar home systems, electricity generation, and community-based renewable energy projects.
• Both cities highlight the importance of public-private partnerships, regulatory frameworks, and community engagement.

Uganda: Kasese and Lugazi

• Kasese: Emphasizes local renewable energy strategies, community-based organizations (CBOs), and solar initiatives.
• Lugazi: Shows the challenges of energy access and the role of local governance, financing mechanisms, and community-based energy solutions.
• These cities illustrate the need for financial support, capacity building, and policy alignment to overcome barriers to renewable energy adoption.

Costa Rica: Cartago, Grecia, and Guanacaste

• Cartago and Grecia: Highlight e-mobility initiatives and the role of municipal governments in promoting electric buses and sustainable transport.
• Guanacaste: Serves as a decarbonisation hub, integrating renewable energy, eco-tourism, and hydrogen economy development.
• These cases show the value of national policy alignment, local innovation, and collaboration with international bodies.

Key Takeaways for Policymakers

• Policy coherence is essential for the successful implementation of renewable energy strategies.
• Local governance and community involvement are critical for the adoption of clean energy technologies.
• Financial mechanisms and institutional support are vital for scaling up renewable energy projects in cities.
• Public-private partnerships and international cooperation can significantly enhance city-level energy transitions.

Conclusion

This study aims to support countries in implementing their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by empowering cities to deploy sustainable energy solutions. It provides insights into the challenges and successes of renewable energy deployment in medium-sized cities and outlines key lessons for policy makers at all levels. The findings emphasize the importance of context-specific strategies, capacity building, and collaboration in advancing the global energy transition.