Objective:

The objective of this discussion is to explore how the right to energy, within the context of energy justice, can serve as a guiding principle for transitions that are grounded in human rights, self-determination, self-directed development, epistemological justice, and the redress of historical and territorial injustices. The discussion also seeks to highlight and problematise the paradox of territories that have historically underpinned energy production and generation whilst bearing the associated socio-environmental impacts and burdens, yet where conditions of insufficient, precarious or inequitable access to energy persist, and where local populations face even higher costs. From this perspective, the aim is to broaden the discussion beyond access and affordability to examine the actual benefits, as well as the territorial costs and impacts. On this basis, a critique of the scope and limitations of the concept of energy poverty can be offered.

Participants:

• Diego Gutiérrez, Sol del Perijá Energy Community, Colombia
• Indira Portocarrero, former director of Colombia’s Mining and Energy Planning Unit (UPME)
• Marina Novaes, Business and Human Rights Centre, Brazil
• Isabel Preciado, Business and Human Rights Centre, Colombia
• Julián Gutiérrez, Dejusticia

Moderated by: Santiago Aldana, Heinrich Böll Foundation

Translation will be provided into English, Spanish and Portuguese