Six solar photovoltaic systems were officially delivered to the municipalities of Klos and Dibra, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy in these regions.
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| From the left: Monika Merino, Kato Kikuko and and the employee of the Ministry |
The ceremony, attended by the Ambassador of Japan to Albania, Kato Kikuko, the Permanent Representative of UNDP, Monica Merino, mayors of both municipalities, and citizens, marked a significant milestone in the journey towards sustainable energy in the communities.
These installations, benefiting six public buildings including high schools, kindergartens, and municipal buildings, highlight the tangible impact of sustainable energy solutions in local communities.
With a total installed capacity of 542 kWp, these solar photovoltaic systems are poised to significantly reduce carbon emissions by approximately 20,000 tons over their 25-year lifespan, providing access to clean and green energy for around 2,124 children, public officials, and citizens.
Implemented within the framework of the project "Market Transformation for the Acceleration of PV Solar Energy in Albania," funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy and the Energy Efficiency Agency, local governments, this project aimed to expedite Albania's transition to renewable energy sources.
With funding of $859,000 from the Japanese government, the project has supported the implementation of Albania's commitments regarding climate change in line with the Paris Agreement, strengthening the country's commitment to climate-resilient development.
Ambassador Kato Kikuko emphasized, "At the core of this project is support for Albania's efforts in decarbonization and adaptation to climate change. We hope that the installation of solar photovoltaic systems in both municipalities will contribute to diversifying energy production sources beyond hydropower in Albania. The installation of solar photovoltaic systems will also contribute to sustainable electricity supply and sustainable economic development in Albania."
"It will also help accelerate the implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Action Plan. In implementing this project, Japan organized a joint seminar with UNDP and representatives from both municipalities. Through this seminar, we were able to share our experience and knowledge in renewable energy with our Albanian friends," she added.
The Japanese Ambassador expressed appreciation for the unwavering commitment of the UNDP team and the implementing teams of the municipalities throughout the project process.
UNDP's Permanent Representative in Albania, Monica Merino, highlighted that "this project is a sustainable contribution to the implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions Action Plan. I am grateful to the Government of Japan for their valuable partnership and support, not only for Albania but also for other countries worldwide, in our joint effort to build a zero-emission future. The Government of Japan is an important partner of UNDP and plays a significant role in translating climate commitments into tangible actions on the ground."
Through support for targeted policies, pilot installations in municipal buildings, and initiatives to develop skills, the project aimed to promote solar energy as one of the main sources of renewable energy besides hydropower. Utilizing Japanese expertise and advanced technologies, the project has improved technical skills and encouraged entrepreneurship in the solar energy sector.
The delivery ceremony in the municipalities of Dibra and Klos symbolized successful cooperation between Japan, UNDP, and local partners in advancing sustainable development goals.
In line with the goals set at COP26, UNDP, through its Climate Promise initiative, reaffirmed its commitment to support countries in translating the goals of the Nationally Determined Contributions into concrete actions.
Albania's enhanced NDC, presented in October 2021, demonstrated a strong commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and embracing clean energy solutions.
The transformative potential of solar energy was already evident through ten pilot projects implemented in the municipalities of Dibra, Klos, Shkodra, and Përmet, resulting in improved access to energy for thousands of Albanian citizens.