World Bank’s ESMAP FY2025-30 Plan Aims to Reshape Global Energy Access

The ESMAP Business Plan FY2025-30 by the World Bank outlines ambitious goals to accelerate global access to sustainable energy. With a strong focus on decarbonization, resilience, and equitable energy access, ESMAP is set to invest in renewable resources and energy efficiency projects, especially in underserved regions. This strategic roadmap reflects a robust commitment to achieving universal energy access by 2030.

World Bank’s ESMAP Business Plan FY2025-30: A Roadmap to Universal Clean Energy Access

The ESMAP Business Plan FY2025-30, published by the World Bank, represents a sweeping effort to address global energy challenges. At a time when energy access and environmental sustainability are more crucial than ever, this comprehensive plan prioritizes making clean energy affordable, accessible, and resilient for millions across low- and middle-income nations. With a focus on decarbonization and strategic investments, ESMAP (Energy Sector Management Assistance Program) is positioned as a catalyst for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7): ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all.

Shaping a Sustainable Future with Clean Energy

From its origins in the 1970s energy crisis, ESMAP has evolved into a key player in global energy reform. In this business plan, ESMAP is set to drive solutions that bridge the energy gap and foster sustainable growth in underserved areas. Leveraging its partnership with the World Bank, ESMAP is increasing its efforts in countries where energy poverty remains high, especially across Sub-Saharan Africa. This new plan not only builds on decades of experience but aligns with the World Bank’s updated mission to confront the urgent challenges of climate adaptation, gender equality, and economic resilience.

Core Pillars of ESMAP’s FY2025–30 Agenda

ESMAP’s vision for the next five years is grounded in three strategic pillars that address the most pressing aspects of the global energy transition:

Expanding Energy Access By 2030, ESMAP aims to bring electricity to 300 million people and clean cooking solutions to 160 million individuals. This objective is ambitious, targeting underserved communities with innovative solutions and partnerships. ESMAP plans to deploy catalytic funds, such as the Clean Cooking Fund 2.0 and the Electricity Access Fund, to reach remote areas and communities impacted by fragility, conflict, and violence (FCV).

Accelerating the Clean Energy Transition ESMAP’s efforts focus on moving away from fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy sources. To address the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, ESMAP is implementing the Financial Innovation Window, a tool designed to de-risk investments in renewable projects and foster private sector participation. The program also supports scaling up energy storage, clean hydrogen, and energy efficiency initiatives—essential components in the shift toward a more sustainable energy grid.

Building Strong Foundations for Decarbonized Energy Systems ESMAP’s foundation-building initiatives focus on upgrading infrastructure, enhancing institutional capabilities, and promoting data-driven decision-making. By modernizing grids, bolstering policy frameworks, and training local talent, ESMAP aims to ensure that energy systems in participating countries are not only sustainable but also resilient to the impacts of climate change. This foundational work is key to achieving both local and global energy targets, including significant greenhouse gas reductions.

Funding Strategy and Global Partnerships

ESMAP’s FY2025–30 budget proposes between $1.14 billion and $2.43 billion, combining contributions from the World Bank and private sector investment. The funding approach includes flexible modular funding that allows donors to co-finance specific regional or country initiatives, ensuring funds reach high-need areas swiftly and effectively. ESMAP’s partnership network is extensive, encompassing global entities like the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), which amplify its impact by uniting public and private sector stakeholders under a common goal.

A Measurable Path to Impact and Innovation

With an emphasis on transparency and accountability, ESMAP has laid out a clear results framework to track its progress on energy access, clean energy job creation, greenhouse gas reduction, and gender inclusivity. By 2030, ESMAP intends to mobilize $10 billion in private investment, provide energy to 300 million individuals, and develop a more inclusive workforce that prioritizes gender equality and economic opportunity.

A Global Vision for Energy Equity

The ESMAP Business Plan FY2025-30, published by the World Bank, is more than just a document—it’s a declaration of intent to transform the global energy landscape. By combining ambitious funding, forward-looking technology, and robust partnerships, ESMAP is paving the way toward a future where sustainable, reliable energy is a reality for all, especially those in the world’s most vulnerable regions. This roadmap underscores the World Bank’s commitment to not only fight climate change but also foster economic resilience and social equity through energy.