Towards Energy Sustainability: Co-construction of Carbon-Neutral Trajectories in Senegal thanks to Intensive Training on LEAP
This week, from Monday 13 to Thursday 16 November 2024, was a crucial step for the members of the Energy Transition Core Group, gathered at the Hotel Les Amaryllis (Saly) for an intensive training session on the LEAP energy modeling tool ( Low Emission Analysis Platform). This initiative is an integral part of the ambitious project to co-construct low-carbon and climate-resilient development trajectories for Senegal. The event is part of the broader framework of the operationalization of the Emerging Senegal Plan 2 (PSE2) and the objectives of combating climate change expressed at the level of the Nationally Determined Contribution (CDN). Senegal, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (MEDD) and the Ministry of Oil and Energy (MPE), signed a protocol with the French Development Agency (AFD) for the implementation of an initiative to co-construct a sustainable development strategy. The main objective of this four-day training session is to develop the expertise of members of the Energy Transition Core Group on the LEAP modeling tool. This includes familiarization with the software's functionalities, carrying out practical modeling exercises, and initiation to the technical exercise of modeling the scenarios envisaged.
The first day was a deep dive into the world of LEAP. The trainers, Francisco Lallana and Ignacio Sagardoy, revealed the intense schedule for the week. The initial objective was clear: to develop solid expertise in the use of LEAP. The morning was devoted to the introduction to energy planning tools and a first approach to the LEAP model. Participants explored the bottom-up modeling technique, focusing on activity, energy intensity and technology. The practical exercises began with the introduction to electricity production and accounting for greenhouse gas emissions. The afternoon was reserved for practical exercises aimed at strengthening the participants' understanding. They were introduced to scenario modeling, an essential element for anticipating possible futures. The lively discussions on the results showed the deep commitment of the Core Group members. This training session was held with a busy schedule for all four days, including cost accounting, jump analysis, cost-benefit calculation, and scenario exploration. The members of the Core Group leave armed with new crucial skills and knowledge to actively contribute to the co-construction of sustainable energy trajectories for Senegal. This initiative, jointly led by ENDA Energie (Senegal) and IDDRI (Institute of Development and International Relations, France), marks a significant step forward towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Senegal. This training is an integral part of a broader initiative aimed at co-building a sustainable, resilient and low-carbon development strategy for Senegal. Focusing on the energy transition, the Core Group plans to develop essential modeling skills, thereby fostering a forward-looking approach to identifying and implementing sustainable economic development trajectories.
