From Data to Implementation: Accelerating a Just Urban Energy Transition

Geopolitical turbulence has fundamentally reframed the energy debate. Security and affordability have risen as primary political drivers, paradoxically strengthening the case for renewables, which are now pursued as much for independence and price stability as for decarbonization. This session focuses on the critical transition from data collection to data application. It explores how strengthening multilevel governance and aligning city-level data with National Determined Contributions (NDCs) can bridge the gap between local action and national climate targets.

The session will open with reflections on the initial years of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy’s (GCOM) Energy Access and Poverty Pillar and new insight into the urban energy dimensions of NDC 3.0. A panel of speakers, including the Governor of Kisumu County, Kenya and the former National Minister of Energy, Water, Infrastructure of Ethiopia, will inform the roadmap on the urban energy future and explore how robust reporting can better support city-led implementation and global energy goals. The panel will be followed by facilitated discussions at tables for reflection and feedback.