Olivier Mussat, Chief Investment Officer for IFC’s Global Energy Group, shares IFC investment priorities
May 6, 2021
auto_awesome
Olivier Mussat, Chief Investment Officer at the International Finance Corporation, oversees a $11bn portfolio of energy assets. He discusses the IFC’s strategic shift towards renewable energy investments fueled by technological advances and climate urgency. Mussat highlights the evolving strategies for hydrocarbons in developing nations, emphasizing sustainability and local community benefits. He also explores the importance of early engagement with project developers and the challenges of balancing climate goals with developmental needs, particularly in Africa.
The substantial shift in energy investment priorities towards renewable sources, particularly solar power, reflects advancements in technology and climate change concerns.
IFC focuses on strategic investments in emerging markets, addressing regional needs and infrastructure while prioritizing sustainable energy solutions like solar and green hydrogen.
Deep dives
Shift in Energy Investment Focus
The shift in energy investment priorities over the last decade has seen a substantial increase in funding for renewable energy sources, particularly solar power. Previously, much investment was directed towards oil and gas, with around $2 billion a year allocated to these sectors; however, this has drastically changed, with investments in solar surpassing $2 billion. The transition is attributed to advancements in technology that have made solar and wind power more competitive compared to traditional hydrocarbon fuels. Moreover, the growing recognition of climate change concerns has influenced this shift, leading to an emphasis on sustainable energy solutions.
Investment Strategies in Emerging Markets
Current investments are strategically focused on emerging markets where needs and existing infrastructure shape investment decisions. For instance, in Kenya, there has been a prioritization of solar energy due to the availability of natural resources, while in Latin America, discussions are centered on utilizing green hydrogen in the mining sector to minimize diesel reliance. Additionally, areas like Vietnam are explored for offshore wind potential while addressing the significant power distribution challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa, where access to reliable electricity remains limited. This multifaceted approach aims to ensure that investments not only provide energy but also align with economic needs and regulatory environments.
Criteria for Investable Projects
Key characteristics of investable energy projects include alignment with macroeconomic strategies, a robust regulatory environment, and effective management teams. This requires a proactive stance where project developers engage early in the investment process to shape viable projects, rather than approaching financial institutions as a last resort. The emphasis is on evaluating the strategic relevance of the investment, ensuring a conducive environment for operations, and engaging competent management to execute projects effectively. These considerations are crucial to ensure that investments are sustainable and contribute positively to development goals in the regions served.
Olivier Mussat, CIO for the International Finance Corporation’s Global Energy Group, is a lead in a team that oversees a portfolio of over $11bn of energy assets, including renewable and conventional power plants, Gas and related energy infrastructure in emerging markets. In our discussion, Olivier shares IFC’s perspective on Energy Investment and where it looks to deploy capital in the coming years.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode