ILO was invited by the Troya Environment Association in Canakkale, Turkey to participate and present in a conference on “Local Authorities and Local Energy Investments” that took place in Milas, Turkey on June 15, 2019. ILO Cooperatives Unit provided a video message on renewable energy cooperatives to the Conference. The Manager of the Unit, Simel Esim noted in her message that renewable energy especially solar energy and wind power are the fastest growing energy sources that can bring about benefits for local economic development such as creation of green jobs and greening of local enterprises. She noted that unlike traditional energy sources like fossil fuels and nuclear power, these renewable energy resources are accessible at the local level. She mentioned that community-based organizations like cooperatives are well-suited to make use of such locally available decentralized renewable resources. She highlighted the advantages cooperatives have in promoting the transition to renewable energy and local economic development. She concluded by underlining the ILO’s commitment to working with the ILO constituents, local governments and the cooperative movement to tap into the potential of cooperatives in the transition to a greener economy.