The Role of MSMEs in Fostering Inclusive and Equitable Economic Growth in the Context of the Clean Energy Transition in MENA

Overview

This project explores how Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the MENA region can drive inclusive and equitable economic growth through the clean energy transition. Funded by International Development Research Centre (IDRC)-Canada and implemented by the Economic Research Forum (ERF), Middle East Institute (MEI), and Lebanese Center for Policy Studies (LCPS), the project paves the way to sustainable employment opportunities and promote energy efficiency and equity.

Focusing on 6 countries in the region (namely Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Sudan, Morocco & Tunisia), the research assesses existing policy frameworks and impediments to renewable energy adoption and expands the knowledge of sustainable behavior at the enterprise level. It also assesses factors influencing the adoption of green energy and investments in energy efficiency. With this new evidence, the research institutions will inform stakeholders and public debates on clean energy, climate change, and environmental justice, especially as it impacts the employment of women and youth.

Key Highlights

• Primary data (qualitative and quantitative) on key challenges and opportunities facing MSMEs in clean energy domain
• Focus on clean energy transition in MENA region with focus on 6 countries (Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Sudan, Tunisia, Morocco)
• Emphasis on inclusivity and gender equality
• Engagement with stakeholders and policymakers
• Thematic research on key intersecting topics (including a) transition in the context of crises, b) renewable energy supply chain, c) potential employment generation, d) gender equality) leading to new insights and comprehensive understanding

Project objectives

• Assessing the impact of the energy transition on job creation and firm performance.
• Examining contributions to energy efficiency, equity, and security.
• Analyzing the potential of MSMEs to drive the transition to renewable energy.
• Identifying barriers to inclusion and developing country-specific policy implications.

Key stakeholders and target audience

Policymakers, development practitioners, private sector, research community, MSME owners, gender experts, energy sector stakeholders, and the general public interested in sustainable development and clean energy.