UK Expands AI and Green Energy Initiatives with Major Funding at G7 Summit – Sustainability News

At the recent G7 Leaders’ Summit, the UK solidified its role as a global leader by announcing the expansion of its AI for Development programme into Asia. This initiative, initially launched to support safe and responsible AI projects in Africa, will now extend its reach to Asia, marking a significant step in global technological and sustainable development efforts.

Prime Minister’s Vision for AI and Clean Energy

During a key session on Artificial Intelligence and Energy, as well as discussions on Africa and the Mediterranean, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stressed the need to reform the international financial system. This reform aims to unlock the necessary funds to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable populations are heard in international politics.

Sunak highlighted the importance of supporting countries in their clean energy transitions and leveraging AI to create new opportunities. To back this vision, he announced a substantial multi-year Official Development Assistance (ODA) funding package, potentially exceeding £100 million. This includes high-impact projects in Africa and a £20 million expansion of the AI for Development programme into Asia, building on the £38 million already invested in Africa.

Significant Investments and Global Partnerships

The AI for Development programme, launched at the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit in November 2023, focuses on funding safe and responsible AI projects globally. This programme is part of a broader UK-Canada partnership, supported by the US, Australia, and other allies, to make advanced AI technology accessible worldwide. It aims to establish new AI labs to train the next generation of developers, policymakers, and thought leaders, fostering responsible and inclusive AI policies.

Green Infrastructure Initiatives

The UK’s commitment to sustainable development is further demonstrated through its investment in the Climate Compatible Growth Programme. This initiative, backed by £57 million of ODA funding, will accelerate the rollout of climate-resilient infrastructure in developing countries across sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. By leveraging UK expertise, the programme aims to support improved infrastructure that can withstand climate impacts.

Boosting African Infrastructure

A notable portion of the funding, up to £35 million, will be directed towards the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa. This initiative seeks to catalyse greater investment in sustainable infrastructure projects across the continent, addressing Africa’s infrastructure deficit by accelerating large-scale investments in new green infrastructure.

Strategic Energy Projects

Partnering with the World Bank and the EU, the UK will invest £15 million in the Zambia-Tanzania Interconnector project. This £300 million project will link the Southern and East African Power Pools, enhancing regional electricity transmission and strengthening climate resilience. This investment is crucial for Zambia’s access to clean energy, which is vital for poverty reduction and economic development.

Additionally, a £300,000 contribution from the British Geological Survey will support economic development along the Lobito Corridor in Angola. This funding will be instrumental in mapping initiatives that bolster regional growth.

Collaborations with Kenya and G7

The funding also includes £500,000 for an initiative to support the planning, prioritisation, and implementation of green infrastructure projects in partnership with the Government of Kenya and the wider G7. Focusing on transport projects selected from the Africa Green Industrialisation Initiative (AGII), this collaboration aims to enhance strategic infrastructure and investment. It marks the first partnership between the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment and AGII.