Development of Five Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans in Azerbaijan

This paper presents the experience and methodological approach adopted in the development of Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (SECAPs) for five municipalities in Azerbaijan: Ganja, Khirdalan, Sheki, Shamakhi, and Yevlakh. As signatories of the Covenant of Mayors, these cities committed to ambitious climate and energy targets in alignment with Azerbaijan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The SECAPs were developed under EUsupported initiatives aiming to enhance local climate resilience and accelerate the energy transition. The paper outlines the key steps taken—from the preparation of Baseline Emission Inventories (BEIs) and Risk and Vulnerability Assessments (RVAs) to the formulation of tailored mitigation and adaptation measures. The process involved extensive stakeholder consultations, data-driven analyses, and alignment with national strategies. Findings highlight common challenges such as data gaps and financing constraints, as well as replicable good practices in local planning and stakeholder engagement. The paper concludes with reflections on lessons learned and the potential for replication of this approach across municipalities in the MENA and Eastern Partnership regions.