A Just Transition to Green Energy

Green Energy at Work

The transition to renewable energy is well underway. Countries that once balked at renewable energy are rushing to establish policies to promote it. Banks and investment funds are placing an increasing share of assets in this sector. There is great hope among policy makers that this transition will be the “silver bullet” that solves simultaneously the environmental, economic and employment crises.

The reality, however, is not so rosy.  The race to establish control over areas rich in renewable resources is beset with exploitation, displacement and territorial conflicts. Fallout from the transition to renewable energy can be witnessed in places like Oaxaca, Mexico and Guajira, Colombia where indigenous communities are actively obstructing the development and operation of corporate wind energy projects.

The transition to renewable energy does not have to unfold this way.

If communities in areas rich in renewable energy can play a central role in the implementation of these projects, the transition to renewable energy will unfold more smoothly, sustainably and democratically. This, in turn, will have a significant impact on climate mitigation and adaptation.

A community-driven transition, however,  requires more than good intentions. Rural communities may have access renewable energy sources, but to make direct use of them they need access to technology, capital, and training. The Yansa Group was created with these needs in mind.

Strengthening Communities and Nurturing Partnerships

The Yansa Group partners with communities that want to make use of their renewable energy sources as a means to building sustainable and participatory local economies. Yansa provides the project financing, technology, management and community training, and our community partners provide the land and renewable resource.  Our initial project is in Oaxaca, Mexico where we are working with a Zapotec community to create the first community wind farm in the region.

The profits from each project will be equally divided between the community and the Yansa Foundation. The part of the profits going to Yansa will be used to finance further community projects elsewhere. The part of the profits going to the community will be administered by a community trust devoted to strengthening the quality of life, economic opportunities and environmental sustainability of the community. Renewable energy projects will, therefore, be part of a broader framework of integral and sustainable community development. more on our community partnerships

Financing Social and Environmental Impact

The Yansa Group is building an investment platform to finance Yansa’s community projects. Our investors should be organizations and individuals that are interested in making a positive social and environmental impact through their investments, while obtaining a modest but safe return. more on our investment opportunities