Introducing the READS Data Platform 

The READS Data Platform was developed as part of the Roadmaps for Energy Access in Displacement Settings (READS) Programme, implemented by the GPA Coordination Unit and funded by the IKEA Foundation.

The READS Programme explores energy access in ten countries affected by forced displacement and has produced detailed roadmap reports.  

The Data Platform consolidates the key findings from these roadmap reports - informed by reports, publications and extensive stakeholder engagement - into a single interactive, central resource. It is designed as a strategic tool for anyone looking to develop impactful projects, foster partnerships, and direct investment to where it’s needed most. 

The data platform includes the following sections: 

• National overview: A summary of each country’s context, including the numbers of displaced people, national energy access levels, and energy policies. 
• Energy in displacement settings: Selected data on energy access, with a focus on specific areas or energy themes based on data availability. 
• Stakeholder database: A directory of organisations working on sustainable energy in displacement settings. 
• Project concepts: High-impact ideas with potential activities, partners, timelines, scales, and budget. 

By consolidating this information, the data platform will support decision-makers, donors, implementers, and advocates to collaborate more effectively and take action to scale up sustainable energy access in displacement settings. 

The project concepts were co-designed during READS stakeholder workshops, where diverse stakeholders (including representatives from government ministries, UN agencies, national and international NGOs, local energy companies, and displaced and host communities) shared experiences and brainstormed solutions. These concepts serve as starting points which highlight viable opportunities, potential partners, estimated costs, and enabling factors – and invite further development into project proposals. They are intended to attract investment and build upon interventions that have already shown promise. Users are encouraged to see these concepts as foundations for collaboration and evidence of local needs, capacities, and opportunities for impactful energy interventions.  

The READS Data Platform provides data, context, and practical ideas for targeted action. As the information represents a snapshot in time, and circumstances in displacement contexts can evolve rapidly, users are encouraged to use the data platform as a starting point. Further on-the-ground research and detailed assessments are essential before moving towards implementation and the GPA Coordination Unit welcomes enquiries from those wishing to learn more. For more information, please reach out to us at energy@unitar.org.