The energy sector accounts for around 80% of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, making a shift to clean, renewable energy critical for mitigating climate change and advancing sustainable development. UNDP partners with countries across the region to transform energy systems and accelerate the just energy transition, providing advice to increase energy security and energy efficiency; implementing innovative low-emission transport solutions and sustainable urban infrastructure; and engaging with governments and the finance sector to leverage investments toward a net zero future. UNDP is working to close the gap in energy access so that marginalized people and communities gain access to sustainable and affordable clean energy and the dignity and opportunities it brings, and to accelerate the energy transition through system changes that support green growth and improve efficiency.  

Energy Finance 

UNDP is dedicated to accelerating the energy transition by mobilizing finance and investment and building strategic partnerships with financial institutions and governments. Our goal is to leverage private financing through limited public resources by collaborating closely with local financial systems, international financial institutions, and the public sector to design and implement diverse financial instruments, such as blended finance models, and policy de-risking mechanisms and financial de-risking tools, including guarantees. We foster enabling conditions through capacity building, legal, regulatory and policy frameworks, and foster dialogue across the public, private, and civil sectors through initiatives like financial innovation labs. These efforts are essential to scaling up finance for energy transition and access, addressing financial and non-financial risks, and ensuring that investments drive sustainable development. 

Clean Energy and Transport 

The transport sector is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in Latin America and the Caribbean, accounting for almost 39% of total emissions. With 80% of the region’s population residing in urban areas, transport not only drives emissions but also exacerbates pollution and public health challenges. UNDP is supporting the transition to electric mobility and sustainable transport infrastructure, promoting the decarbonization of the energy sector and reducing urban pollution to create healthier, more resilient cities across the region.