Just Energy Transition Joint Programme

Project Overview:

Project Duration:12 months 

Start Date: November 22, 2024 

End Date: November 21, 2025 

Implementing Partner: Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy Division 

Total Budget: $410,000 

Funding Sources: Includes contributions from the UN Joint SDG Fund, UN agencies, and other partners  

Beneficiary Communities: 21 Indigenous and Tribal Peoples (ITP) communities 

Upper Suriname: Grantatai, Bendikwai,Banafoo, Baikutu, Pikin Pada  

Coppename: Corneliskondre,Donderskamp  

Nickerie: Tapoeripa  

Saramacca: Kalebaskreek, Totikampu, Maho  

Tapanahony: Clementi, Carmel, Tjon Tjon, Powi, Mpoesoe, Sajé  

Additional Villages: Witagron, Kaaimanston, Jozefdorp and Alfonsdorp 

Project Summary:

The Just Energy Transition Joint Programme (JET JP) is designed to develop market-ready energy projects in Suriname's interior, focusing on sustainable energy access, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability. It aims to help achieve a 35% renewable energy share by 2030 and work towards net-zero energy systems by 2050. Suriname’s interior remains largely underserved in energy access, with 127 ITP communities relying on biomass and diesel generators.

These outdated systems cause: 

• High energy costs and inefficiencies
• Health issues, particularly respiratory diseases
• Environmental degradation
• Stalled economic and educational opportunities 

Only 30% of households in these areas have reliable electricity access, versus 90%+ in urban centers, reinforcing deep development gaps. 

Barries to Energy Acces:  

Type                                 Key Challenges 

Financial                           High upfront costs; limited community access to financing 

Policy & Regulatory         Weak frameworks; few incentives for private or decentralized solutions 

Social & Cultural               Limited awareness and resistance to change from traditional practices 

Jet JP Objective:

The Just Energy Transition Joint Programme (JET JP) seeks to overcome systemic barriers and deliver sustainable, inclusive, and equitable renewable energy solutions to ITP communities in the interior. 

Strategic Goals:

• Expand energy security through renewable off-grid systems
• Stimulate local economies and education
• Promote gender equality and inclusive participation
• Reduce climate and environmental impacts 

Project document

Just Energy Transition Joint Programme

key Interventions 

• Community-led and gender-sensitive energy planning
• Development of bankable JET JP proposals
• Sustainable financing solutions
• Capacity building and awareness programs