April 8, 2025 – As part of the EU-funded MED-GEM Network, a high-level online regional workshop titled “Accelerating Green Energy Financing: Regional Solutions for a Sustainable Transition in the Southern Mediterranean” brought together key actors from policy, finance, and project development. Against the backdrop of rising global interest in renewable hydrogen and the strategic repositioning of EU-MENA cooperation, the event served as a pivotal moment to identify solutions for unlocking investment in green energy infrastructure. With a focus on bankability, regulatory frameworks, and regional collaboration, the workshop laid the groundwork for an actionable roadmap towards sustainable energy transitions in Southern Mediterranean countries.

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The workshop opened with remarks by Milou Beerepoot, Programme Manager at DG MENA, who highlighted a striking paradox: “There is no shortage of available finance — the real challenge lies in the lack of bankable projects,” she stressed, calling for “a predictable, transparent and stable investment ecosystem.” Frank Wouters, Director of the MED-GEM Network, emphasized the need for a shared vision: “The energy transition is not an end in itself — it must become a driver of regional cooperation and local value creation.” Mustapha Taoumi (MED-GEM Renewable Energy Key Expert) and Samir Belrhandoria (Green Finance Specialist) set the analytical tone for the day. Taoumi described the disconnect between project design and local needs: “Many projects are export-oriented but disconnected from national development goals. We need hybrid models — locally anchored and globally competitive.” Belrhandoria added: “Technical design is not enough. Projects must be narratively strong and strategically de-risked to appeal to international financiers.”