Oxfams work on JET

Oxfam Denmark is dedicated to advancing equitable and sustainable energy solutions that address systemic challenges such as inequality, poverty, and climate vulnerability. As a cornerstone of our climate justice work, promoting a Just Energy Transition (JET) is a key priority.

Through our programs, we empower communities and strengthen civil society networks to advocate for policies that support green transitions, fair taxation, and clean, affordable energy access—particularly for women and marginalized groups. In addition to advocacy and capacity-building, our efforts include practical solutions such as providing access to renewable energy sources. These include solar-powered irrigation systems for farmers, training in briquette production, and the construction of energy-efficient stoves, ensuring tangible benefits for local communities.

A journey towards resilience and sustainability

In collaboration with Oxfam country affiliates and local partners, Oxfam Denmark leads efforts to pilot and scale JET initiatives in countries such as Cambodia, Uganda, Kenya, and the Philippines. These initiatives prioritize gender-responsive approaches, community resilience, and the sustainable use of resources, including the responsible extraction of critical minerals essential for a green transformation.

Our approach integrates capacity-building, advocacy, research, and practical interventions to influence government policies and corporate practices, ensuring that energy transitions uphold social and environmental safeguards. By amplifying the voices of women, youth, and Indigenous communities, Oxfam fosters people-centered solutions that emphasize equity and sustainability, creating a more just and inclusive future.

Explore this space to learn more about our initiatives and ongoing efforts to achieve an energy transition rooted in justice. Currently, we have initiatives underway in 10 countries, showcasing diverse approaches and best practices in advancing equitable and sustainable energy solutions.

Philippines: Enhancing Women’s Economic Empowerment and Promoting a Just Energy Transition for Community and Climate Resilience

The Global JET initiative facilitated the launch of the "Strengthening Women’s Economic Empowerment and Just Energy Transitions (SWEEETER)" initiative. Implemented by SIKAT, this project provided renewable energy to Barangay Hilabaan, an off-grid island community in Eastern Samar. Previously, residents relied on diesel generators for only four hours of electricity each day. Through the SWEEETER project, a community-based renewable energy system was introduced, managed by women-led Self-Help Groups who led the micro-grid development in remote areas. Judy Ann Limbo, a contributor to the cooperative, says:

“You can’t do it alone. Back when I wasn’t part of this group, it seemed like a woman’s place was only at home, cooking and doing household chores. But it’s different when you’re involved in an organisation like this. Your knowledge grows, and you realise that women can do what others can do too.”

The project successfully installed a hybrid solar energy system in two key locations: the cooperative's processing office and their farm. To ensure sustainability, women received training in system maintenance and policy development, empowering them to generate income and collaborate on marketable goods.

The cooperative reinvested savings from reduced electricity costs and earnings from farmland initiatives into economic programs, boosting productivity, financial independence, and resilience. The project also focused on engaging youth in agriculture through knowledge sharing on sustainable practices and advocacy in numerous trainings and seminars. See video here.

Other initiatives

Cambodia

JET initiatives focus on improving rural energy access through off-grid solar solutions, including irrigation systems that reduce costs, boost agricultural productivity, and empower women in agriculture. Collaborating with CSOs and stakeholders, Oxfam advances policies for a just energy transition, emphasizing inclusivity and sustainability. Watch the video here.

Colombia

In partnership with Fuerza Mujeres de Wayúu, Oxfam strengthens Wayúu women’s capacities to address the impacts of extractivism and renewable energy projects in their territories. Through political education and advocacy training the initiative promotes inclusive energy transitions that protect Indigenous rights.  See video here.

MENA

Oxfam’s MENA platform addresses energy poverty and its disproportionate impact on women, working with the Arab Feminist NGO Network to amplify voices and promote gender equity in energy transitions. Through capacity-building, webinars, and regional working groups, Oxfam strives to integrate feminist perspectives into NDCs and energy policies, driving systemic change.

Senegal

In Senegal initiatives focus on assessing the viability of key oil and gas projects amid global energy shifts. A recent study informs sustainable investment strategies and was shared at key forums like the African Climate Summit. Future actions focus on raising awareness, forming a multi-stakeholder group, and promoting equitable energy development.

Uganda

Uganda's West Nile region trains refugees and host community members in briquette production and energy-efficient stove construction to tackle energy challenges and resource scarcity. The initiative reduces wood fuel reliance, mitigates deforestation, and improves health while fostering entrepreneurship and community development. 

Kenya

JET efforts focus on addressing reliance on firewood and charcoal, improving health and reducing environmental impacts. Key initiatives include a scoping study on clean energy transitions, community workshops on energy frameworks, and the rollout of Solvatten solar water purifiers. See video here.

Ghana

Oxfam’s review of Ghana’s critical minerals sector examines policies, mining impacts, and human rights, complementing Oxfam Novib’s focus on tax transparency and corporate tax avoidance. Additionally, Friends of the Nation, with Oxfam’s support, studies the social and environmental risks of lithium mining.

Bangladesh 

JET initiatives focus on promoting renewable energy within the Ready-Made Garment sector, a major economic driver and contributor to fossil fuel emissions. The program includes capacity-building workshops for workers and industry stakeholders, advocating for the adoption of renewable energy while addressing worker rights and social justice issues. 

Malawi 

Initiatives focus on piloting clean energy solutions like improved cookstoves, raising awareness, and building community capacity in energy policies. Key efforts include fostering dialogue between communities and policymakers, advocating for fiscal incentives and investments, and supporting CSOs to monitor energy reforms. Policy research ensures these initiatives are evidence-based, with a focus on gender and social inclusion in energy policies.