By: Oil & gas middle east

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is spearheading efforts at the upcoming Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM16) in Busan, South Korea, to enhance global access to clean cooking, emphasising collaboration with Africa. This initiative highlights Washington’s dedication to promoting reliable and affordable energy solutions worldwide.

Despite recent progress, with over one billion people gaining access to clean cooking primarily through LPG, nearly two billion still depend on polluting fuels, with Africa significantly affected. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) stresses that clean cooking access in Africa is not only an energy challenge but a crucial development issue impacting health and economic opportunities, especially for women and children. Addressing this requires comprehensive infrastructure and international partnerships, including collaboration with the U.S.

At CEM16, the U.S. DOE will emphasise the importance of bridging the clean cooking gap, advocating for strategies and investments to expand clean cooking fuels and infrastructure. The U.S. aims to work with new partners to mobilise financing, deploy proven technologies, and accelerate progress towards universal clean cooking access.

A key feature of the event will be the Minister-CEO roundtable titled “Fueling Life: Reliable Energy Access for All,” focusing on financing, infrastructure deployment, and technology scaling for clean cooking fuels. Notable speakers include Michael Kelly from the World Liquid Gas Association and James P. Danly, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy, as well as senior policymakers from Saudi Arabia, South Korea, South Africa, and the European Commission.

Industry leaders, such as NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC, and Jonathan Fancher, CEO of Petredec Global, will discuss their roles in investment mobilisation and accelerating access to clean cooking.

NJ Ayuk emphasised the need for strong partnerships and infrastructure investment, stating, “The African Energy Chamber is committed to working with governments, the private sector, and partners like the U.S. DOE to drive investment, scale LPG deployment, and make clean cooking a reality for every household.”

The event will also pave the way for the new CEM Clean Cooking Initiative, “Fueling Lives: Affordable, Reliable, Healthy Cooking for All,” targeting regions with urgent needs, such as Africa and South and Southeast Asia.