We asked experts how we can overcome structural barriers to renewable energy investments
At Renew2030 we collaborate globally with a diverse range of partners, from grassroots movements to policy think tanks, philanthropies, and climate NGOs. We’ve asked them how they tackle key barriers to renewable energy investments, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Investments in renewable capacity reached a record high of USD 570 billion in 2023. While this increase massively concerns China, EU, and the United States, Brazil and India accounted for just over 6% of investments, and in Africa, investments fell by 47% compared to 2022. This disparity highlights the need for an inclusive transition to net zero – one that ensures low- and middle-income countries aren’t left behind. These regions face a significant financing gap, with an estimated shortfall of $1.2 trillion annually required to meet their climate goals.
From our interviews with experts and partners working in policy research, investment deployment, and community engagement, three key blockers – and strategies to address them – have emerged across regions and areas of focus.
Redirecting fossil fuel investments is just the beginning. To close the $1.2 trillion financing gap for low- and middle-income countries, partners have highlighted the need to attract additional capital, both foreign and domestic.
A core blocker outlined by the experts we spoke to lies in the perceived risk embedded within any regulatory framework that is perceived by markets to be hindering rather than facilitating renewable projects development.
For campaigners and philanthropists, this challenge presents a significant opportunity. Adjustments in regulatory barriers – such as those related to planning or capital requirements – can have outsized impacts on attracting private sector investment.
For example, we’ve supported initiatives like Bangladesh’s Centre for Policy Dialogue, through our partner the Sunrise Project. They collaborate with academics, policymakers, and investors to identify and highlight the domestic investment blockers and operational bottlenecks that prevent large-scale overseas investment in renewable energy-led power generation. These blockers are brought to the attention of national officials and investors at the occasion of Energy Forums bringing all stakeholders together to promote the creation of a new framework that expedites renewable energy investment.
Similarly in Sri Lanka, our partner V20 is engaging strategically with Finance Ministries to develop investment plans to attract foreign investments into renewable energy projects. The Sri Lanka Offshore Wind Roadmap exemplifies what can be achieved with strong regional cooperation that promotes offshore wind development.
