Side event COP29: A Neglected Energy Transition: Phasing out Charcoal and Firewood – Advancing Electric Cooking Solutions in Least Developed Countries

A lively dialogue side event on electrification of cooking was held at COP29, jointly organised by UNIDO and LDC REEEI.

The event focused on prospects for a just transition to electric cooking in Least Developed Countries and shed light on the pressing health, environmental, and social challenges posed by traditional biomass cooking methods and the significant benefits of adopting electric cooking solutions. The event higligthed successful case studies, addressed barriers to adoption and showcased strategies that ensure gender equity and empowerment of women, with stakeholders from various sectors sharing insights.

While many participants were at the outset of the event skeptical to the feasibility and prospects of electrification of cooking in LDCs, the lively conversation markedly shifted the understanding and insights to a realisation that e-cooking has significant merits and real feasibility as a leapfrogging technology.