Toolbox on Integrating Energy Efficiency in Buildings into Social Infrastructure Operations of Public Development Banks

The Partnership for Energy Efficiency in Buildings (PEEB) and the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC) mandated Econoler to develop a toolbox for public development banks (PDBs). This toolbox compiles information on how development banks can develop projects on green buildings. It supports banks in integrating energy efficiency in buildings (EEB) into the social infrastructure operations of PDBs. It addresses different topics from definitions of green buildings to how to build capacity and monitor results. The toolbox was developed in collaboration with the Coalition for Social Investment of the Finance in Common Summit (FiCS).

Econoler was mandated to develop a toolbox to help PDBs integrate energy efficiency into social infrastructure financing. Under the mandate, Econoler carried out the following tasks:

• Reviewed existing material on tools, frameworks, and best practices for integrating energy efficiency in social infrastructure projects and analyzed the structure of existing toolboxes to design an effective format for the target audience;

• Collected data on energy efficiency in social infrastructure, including case studies and financing mechanisms used by PDBs. Developed nine detailed project sheets showcasing successful implementation in various regions worldwide and highlighting their approaches and key lessons learned;

• Developed content for the toolbox, including a step-by-step guide on institutional commitment and PDB strategy, financial instruments and mobilization, capacity building and coordination, as well as project assessment and verification with respect to energy savings and energy efficiency;

• Engaged stakeholders through workshops and consultations with PDB representatives, social infrastructure experts, and energy efficiency specialists. Incorporated feedback into the publication to ensure relevance and applicability;

• Delivered the final toolbox in digital and print-ready formats, including visually engaging elements and comprehensive documentation.

The work of Econoler provided the AFD with a practical toolbox to strengthen PDB capacity to finance energy-efficient social infrastructure projects, thus reinforcing AFD commitment to sustainable development goals. The toolbox was presented at the Fifth Finance in Common Summit (FiCS) on 26-28 February 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa and is available at: https://financeincommon.org/sites/default/files/2025-02/250220-Toolbox-AFD-SCREEN.pdf.