Reflections from the Energy Access and Development Panel @Energy Week at Duke 2025

On November 4, the James E. Rogers Energy Access Project at Duke (EAP) participated in the Energy Access and Development Panel, held on the margins of the 10th Annual Energy Week at Duke. The panel was moderated by Jonathan Phillips, Director, EAP; and featured the following speakers:
– Kwabena Osei-Sarpong, Founder & CEO, RIFE International
– Valentina Guido, Senior Associate, Global South & Strategy Programs, RMI
– Alix Peterson Zwane, Director of Research & Engagement Strategy, Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability
– Bolormaa Chimednamjil, Sustainability & Infrastructure Professional, The World Bank Group

Panelists explored how recent shift in international development are shaping career opportunities and skills in the sector, emphasizing the growing importance of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technical training.

They also shared their experiences implementing energy access and efficiency projects in the Global South, with a particular focus on Africa. For instance, they highlighted the role of mini-grids in extending reliable electricity to rural communities and discussed how these decentralized solutions are helping to connect and empower remote populations while supporting local economic development.

With equity at the center of the discussion, speakers also highlighted the need for sustained investment in resilience and the emergence of innovative financial instruments, such as resilience-linked bonds, to help communities adapt and thrive.

A huge thank you to our speakers and organizers, looking forward to next year’s Energy Week!