As of March 1, 2016, Hivos became the legal host of longstanding partner ENERGIA.

With the integration of ENERGIA, Hivos welcomes a network of member organisations in 22 countries (with a focus on Africa and Asia) that has played a major role in creating an institutional base for mainstreaming gender into the energy sector in developing countries. Both Hivos and ENERGIA see great added value of having ENERGIA integrated in Hivos. ENERGIA’s deep understanding of and involvement in gender and energy approaches to development aligns very well with Hivos, which also has energy as one of its core themes. ENERGIA’s experience in combining implementing programmes on the ground with advocacy and a targeted research programme makes the network an ideal addition to Hivos, an international organisation that seeks new solutions to persistent global issues. With smart projects in the right places, we will work together to counter discrimination, inequality, abuse of power and the unsustainable use of our planet’s resources.

In 1999, ENERGIA was first hosted by ETC Foundation, a non-profit organisation working worldwide in support of people-centred development. Over the past two years, however, ETC has undergone a drastic transition process that required its Board of Trustees to wind down operations. As a result, ENERGIA had to find a new host for its International Secretariat. By hosting the International Secretariat, Hivos takes over the legal and fiduciary framework under which ENERGIA’s programmes are funded, managed and implemented. Hivos has also become the formal employer of the staff of the ENERGIA International Secretariat, and is now responsible for quality control and proper implementation of programmes and management of ENERGIA. The new structure provides ENERGIA with a solid base to operate from, while at the same time ENERGIA will retain its independence.

Having ENERGIA on board reiterates Hivos’ strong commitment to promoting renewable energy for all and firmly anchoring gender approaches in its programmes.