Mauritania Validation Workshop on Powering Artisanal Fisheries Sector with Decentralised Renewables

Fisheries is one of Mauritania’s major economic levers, estimated to contribute between 4-10% of Mauritania’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and up to 50% of the value of exports. The development of the fisheries sector is one of Mauritania’s priority adaption actions identified in the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) to reinforce food security and reduce poverty especially in the rural areas. However, access to reliable and affordable energy is one of the greatest constraints limiting the development of the fisheries value chain in general, and small-scale fishing in particular, with the sector relying heavily on fossil fuels to power the entire chain from catch to conservation, processing, and distribution.

In support to the Government of Mauritania, through its Ministry of Energy and Petroleum in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Maritime Economy, IRENA commissioned a study to assess the deployment of decentralized renewable energy solutions for powering the artisanal fisheries sector in Mauritania. This effort aligns with IRENA’s overarching dedication to advancing the energy transition in the productive sectors in developing countries through the Empowering Lives and Livelihoods – Renewables for Climate Action Initiative.

IRENA in collaboration with the Government of Mauritania is organizing a validation workshop on 17-18 December 2024 in Nouakchott, to present and validate the study findings, which identifies key barriers and high impact opportunities offered by decentralized renewable energy solutions for decarbonizing and powering the artisanal fisheries value chains in Mauritania and closing the energy access gaps in the sector. Based on the findings, the study provides specific recommendations to stimulate the uptake and integration of decentralised renewables in the fisheries sector.

For more information, please contact the project manager (BBittaye@irena.org), cc: EAccess@irena.org.