Revealing and Navigating Climate Obstruction in International Finance for Energy Transitions

This project examines how international finance, through funded energy projects, obstructs just energy transitions in Africa. We ask: 1) Through the funding of energy development projects in Africa, how has international finance obstructed just energy transitions? and 2) How do the obstruction tactics deployed by international financial institutions align with national and local energy priorities and how do domestic actors respond to obstruction? Employing a case study approach across Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa, we will conduct a content analysis of energy project proposals approved by multilateral development banks. Further research in Kenya and Senegal will include interviews with energy sector actors to examine local community responses (including resistance) to energy projects. This project seeks to reveal the tactics used by international financial institutions to delay energy transitions in Africa and offer insights that can inform policymakers and community organizations to strategically address them.

Project Team:

• Laura Kuhl, Associate Professor
• Carmella Uwineza, PhD candidate in Public Policy

Project Sponsor:

• Climate Social Science Network