Tbilisi, Georgia – Mr Emilbek Orozbaev, Director of the Green Energy Fund of Kyrgyzstan (the Fund), and Mr Jaba Khmaladze, CEO of JSC “Georgian Energy Development Fund” (GEDF), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 17 November 2023 with the support of the European Union’s project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)”.

The primary objective of this MoU is to establish cooperation between the parties in the field of renewable energy development. The parties agreed to exchange information concerning the regulatory framework, technical standards, awareness raising and best practices. This exchange is essential to ensure informed decision-making and promote successful project implementation.

“The GEDF’s experience in identifying promising renewable energy projects and supporting their development through pre-feasibility studies and preliminary environmental impact assessments, as well as promotion of green investments are of particular interest for us. With the helpful coordination by the SECCA project, we signed this Memorandum of Understanding, the starting point of our cooperation”, stated Mr Orozbaev.

“Signing of the MoU is an important step. There are already further activities planned. With the SECCA’s support, GEDF will develop a business model for operation of the Green Energy Fund. We will do financial modelling and pre-feasibility study for small hydropower projects. In March-April 2024, we plan to present the results of these activities to our partners in Kyrgyzstan”, said Mr Paata Janelidze, SECCA Team Leader.

The representatives of the Fund and GEDF were first introduced to each other in Bishkek at the International Conference “Sustainable energy in Kyrgyzstan: prospects and challenges” organised jointly by the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic and the SECCA project on 15 May 2023. On 5 October 2023, at the SECCA technical workshop also organised in Bishek, GEDF presented its experience in promoting hydropower, approach to development of pre-investment documentation, and financing schemes for small hydropower projects.

Background:

Founded in November 2022 by the Cabinet of Ministries of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Green Energy Fund’s mission is to develop an effective public administration system in the green energy sector. The Fund has been tasked to accumulate funds to finance, maintain, subsidies, repair, reconstruct and construct renewable energy facilities, as well as to stimulate the development, implementation and production of energy-saving renewable energy technologies.

Founded in 2010, JSC “Georgian Energy Development Fund” is managed by the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. GEDF’s mission is to promote realisation of country’s energy potential, retrieval of appropriate funds, by developing projects and their effective implementation. The main goals of GEDF are search for perspective projects of renewable energy sources and promotion of their development.

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Senior Communication Expert, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic, email: delegation-kyrgyzstan-pic@eeas.europa.eu.

Dushanbe, Tajikistan – The Award Ceremony to recognise the most energy efficient school of the city of Dushanbe was held today. International Presidential School (School) was recognised as the most energy efficient of the capital city.

The Ceremony was organised by the EU’s project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” and held as part of the European Union (EU) Green Diplomacy Week and EU–Tajikistan Sustainable Energy Days. It was attended by teachers, students, parents, the Dushanbe city administration, representatives of the EU and its Member States.

In his address to the event participants, H.E. Mr Raimundas Karoblis, EU Ambassador to Tajikistan, stated:

“It is with a great pleasure and honour I present this Award to the International Presidential School. Congratulations! Choosing to save energy, using it more efficiently, protecting natural resources and the environment today will ensure a better and healthier future for all of us and generations to come. The youth can and should tackle green transition, contribute to promotion of careful use of electricity and heat at school and at home, set patterns to others, including to us, the adults. “The most energy efficient school” Award is a collective accomplishment of teachers and students of this School, as well as their contribution to the sustainable growth of the country. I sincerely wish other schools and institutions will follow your example.”

This nomination follows the desk research conducted by the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan. The EU’s Award recognizes the School’s efficient energy consumption, the readiness to implement energy efficient technologies, as well as the teachers’ contribution in fostering schoolchildren’s skills of careful and rational use of energy resources, achieving sustained energy savings, and promoting sustainable energy consumption patterns.

One representative of the School has been also invited to a study tour to Europe to learn the European experience in renewable energy, energy saving, energy efficiency, and transition to sustainable energy. The study tour is scheduled to take place in November 2023 and organised by the SECCA project.

The Award Ceremony was then followed by a flashmob of schoolchildren on electric scooters “Reduce carbon, save the Earth!” The purpose of the flashmob was to draw attention to the fact that transport produces high level of greenhouse gas emissions and to inspire people to reduce their carbon footprint, opt for zero-emission mobility by switching to more eco-friendly solutions.

Background:

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

The EU Green Diplomacy Weeks is part of the annual global campaign launched by the European Union and its Member States to spark conversations and inspire action for the environment and climate. Under the theme “A Global Just Energy Transition,” this year’s EU Green Diplomacy Weeks focus on accelerating energy efficiency and the deployment of renewable energy sources. The Green Diplomacy Weeks consist of a number of public diplomacy events organised by EU Delegations all over the world, during the period September – November 2023.

The EU–Tajikistan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader EU–Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of all national stakeholder groups and the broader public in the region on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Tajikistan: Mahbuba.ABDULLOEVA@eeas.europa.eu. 

Dushanbe, Tajikistan – Energy security is a national priority of Tajikistan. Although the country is endowed with abundant water resources, its hydropower has a clear seasonality with supply shortages happening frequently in winter months. Hence, energy policy focuses on providing uninterrupted energy access to all users, improving regional cooperation and energy efficiency (EE), as well as diversifying energy sources.

Improved EE and diversified supply from renewables (solar and wind), as envisaged by the National Development Strategy of the Republic of Tajikistan for the period up to 2030, will have many benefits for the country’s socio-economic development and the environment. Besides reducing reliance on fuel imports to address growing energy demand and supply shocks, the development of the sustainable energy sector will help mitigate negative effects of climate change and reduce emissions that are harmful to human health and the environment, cut costs, and create new jobs and economic opportunities for the population and the industry.

Scaling up EE in municipal water and wastewater services, as well as improving energy and water use in irrigation are equally important aspects to address in the country. Sector governance issues, knowledge gaps and financing obstacles are challenges that calls for developing and implementing cross-sectoral policies and strategies, promoting policy coherence between energy, water and key related areas.

Against this background, the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of the Republic of Tajikistan and the EU organised the International Conference “Energy Efficiency in Tajikistan: prospects and challenges” (Conference) on 25-26 October in Dushanbe. The conference took place in the context of the EU’s Green Diplomacy Week and EU–Tajikistan Sustainable Energy Days 2023 campaigns. More than 90 stakeholders, energy policymakers and professionals, representatives of academia and civil society from the Republic of Tajikistan and the European Union (EU), as well as international organisations and international financial institutions gathered to share experiences and best practices in the implementation of energy efficiency (EE) policies based on lessons learned by EU Member States (EU MSs) and Energy Community Contracting Parties (EnC CPs).

Addressing the participants of the Conference, H.E. Mr Raimundas Karoblis, EU Ambassador to Tajikistan, stated: “The European Union commends Tajikistan’s efforts in pursuing ambitious energy sector reforms and welcomes the country’s endeavours to promote energy efficiency and scale up renewable energy. The 2030 National Development Strategy sets clear goals and plays a pivotal role in the country’s desired level of sustainable economic development and improved standards of living of the population. We encourage Tajikistan to continue its efforts on achieving steady and inclusive green growth. The EU will continue supporting a just energy transition in Tajikistan and the whole Central Asian region.”

Currently, Tajikistan is at the stage of designing policies and implementation mechanisms to promote end-use EE, i.e. efficient energy use by various end-use sectors like residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation with less energy input, reduced wasted energy and costs. Therefore, now is the right time to identify the way forward with key national stakeholders, international donors, and other partners and to seize the opportunity to integrate lessons learned and experiences gained in the EU MSs and EnC CPs into the further process of sustainable energy policy development in Tajikistan.

During the Conference, the delegates discussed the design and implementation of EE policies and reviewed the EU experience in promoting end-use EE, eco-design and energy labelling of electric appliances, as well as the EU approach to the promotion of EE in buildings. Improvement of EE in irrigation systems was also reviewed. In addition, the examples and experience of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, and development partners’ initiatives in RE and EE fields in Tajikistan were considered. Last but not least, potential for development of small-scale RE in Tajikistan was also examined.

Background:

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

The Energy Community is an international organisation which brings together the European Union and its neighbours to create an integrated pan-European energy market. Its key objective is to extend the EU internal energy market rules and principles to countries in South East Europe, the Black Sea region and beyond on the basis of a legally binding framework. The Energy Community has nine Contracting Parties: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, and Ukraine.

The EU Green Diplomacy Weeks is part of the annual global campaign launched by the European Union and its Member States to spark conversations and inspire action for the environment and climate. Under the theme “A Global Just Energy Transition,” this year’s EU Green Diplomacy Weeks focus on accelerating energy efficiency and the deployment of renewable energy sources. The Green Diplomacy Weeks consist of a number of public diplomacy events organised by EU Delegations all over the world, during the period September – November 2023.

The EU–Tajikistan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader EU–Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of all national stakeholder groups and the broader public in the region on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Tajikistan: Mahbuba.ABDULLOEVA@eeas.europa.eu.

Tashkent, Uzbekistan – The Award Ceremony to recognise the most energy efficient school of the city of Tashkent was held today. Public school №242 (School) was recognised as the most energy efficient  of the capital city.

The Award Ceremony was organised by the European Union (EU) through its project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia” (SECCA) in close cooperation with the Agency for Strategic Reforms under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, as part of the campaign EU–Uzbekistan Sustainable Energy Days.

The purpose of the Ceremony was to raise public awareness on importance and benefits of introducing energy efficiency and energy saving policies and practices in Uzbekistan. It was attended by representatives of the EU, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, the School, national experts of Uzbekistan and the European experts in energy efficiency and energy audit.

Mr Wim Riepma, Head of Cooperation Section of the EU Delegation to Uzbekistan presented Ms Kamola Azimkhodjaeva, the School principal, a diploma and a commemorative crystal figurine, and stated:

“I wholeheartedly congratulate teachers, students, and parents of School №242 for this achievement! “The most energy efficient school” Award underscores the importance of energy conservation not only in educational institutions, but also in buildings across Uzbekistan. This accomplishment is the School’s contribution to sustainable energy transition of the country. I hope other schools will be inspired by your outstanding example, will strive to use natural resources more efficiently, save energy, and do their bit to protect the environment and climate.”

This nomination follows the research conducted by the SECCA project, which has identified the top-performing institution in terms of energy efficiency (electricity use), based on the data provided by the Agency for Strategic Reforms and the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The assessment was based on evaluation of energy consumption per student. This approach reveals how the schoolchildren and teachers influence energy use and offers a panoramic view of school’s energy practices and performance, providing a foundation for targeted interventions and improvements.

School principal Ms Azimkhodjaeva has been also invited to a study tour to Europe to learn the European experience in renewable energy, energy saving, energy efficiency, and transition to sustainable energy. The study tour is scheduled to take place in November 2023 and organised by the SECCA project.

The award ceremony was followed by the workshop “Energy audits in buildings – from theory to practice” held by the EU project’s experts with the objective of sharing the knowledge, experience and best practices with Uzbek energy experts.

Background: The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

The EU–Uzbekistan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader EU – Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of all national stakeholder groups and the broader public in the region on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy. Multiple events took place within this campaign in Uzbekistan, including the International Conference “Energy Efficiency in Uzbekistan: prospects and challenges”, the technical workshop “Energy audits in buildings – from theory to practice”, and other bilateral meetings and consultations.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication Strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Media Relations and Digital Communication Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp/Telegram: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Uzbekistan: delegation-uzbekistan-political@eeas.europa.eu.

Astana, Kazakhstan – A sustainable energy-themed mural was unveiled today in the presence of teachers, schoolchildren, and parents of School Lyceum №59 (School). The mural is the European Union’s (EU) present to the School in recognition of its achievements in energy saving and energy efficiency, and contributions to raising awareness on green energy among the young generation.

In fact, the School was recognised as the most energy efficient school among 100 public schools of Astana city, following the desk research conducted by the EU project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)”. The Award Ceremony was held in June this year, as part of the EU–Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Then, H.E. Mr Kestutis Jankauskas, the EU Ambassador to Kazakhstan, first announced the EU’s intention to present the mural to the School.

The opening of the mural gathered the School teachers, students, parents, city representatives аnd representatives of the EU.

Ambassador Jankauskas, addressing the event attendees, stated: “It is a great pleasure and honour for me to stand in front of you at this School again. When we first met, we celebrated the School’s achievement and kicked off summer with a fun flashmob and e-scooter ride. We called for reducing the carbon emissions and saving the Earth! Today, the occasion is equally joyful. On behalf of the European Union, I am happy to present to you this mural. It is called “Sustainable Energy for a Better Future”. This particular artwork has been chosen among 40 other works submitted to the EU contest for the best mural design among citizens of Kazakhstan. I think, it was favoured by the Contest Committee not only because of its design, but most importantly the ideas behind. Personally, I see it as a call that the future of our children depends on the choices we make today. Opting for sustainable energy, cutting emissions, protecting environment are paramount for the health and happiness of all. I wholeheartedly celebrate this School, its teachers and students, for their work. Taking this opportunity, I thank the author of the mural for this artwork and the artist for reproducing it on the School façade.”

Ms Alma Zhumabekova, the School principal, said in her speech: “We are humbled by the acknowledgement from the European Union and deeply touched by this present. All of us wish that our children are healthy and have a good life, the best life. At this school, we try to foster in our students the love and respect for the nature and the Planet, as well as interest in innovations and creativity. This beautiful mural gives us incentives to continue our work.”

The mural illustrates two smiling children, a girl and a boy, on the left side, and the view of the Astana city in the future on the right side. The blue sky and white birds are symbols of clean air. Little stars spread across the picture represent aspirations for fulfilment of children’s dreams, as well as are a nod to the stars on the EU flag. The solar panels and wind turbines are the source of energy and an indispensable part of life in this future. According to Ms Zhuldyz Serikova, the author of the mural and winner of the EU contest, the boy on the picture is her nephew, and the rest of the picture is her wishful view of the future, which, she believes, her nephew and all children of Kazakhstan deserve.

The mural opening ceremony was organised by the SECCA project. One representative of the School and Ms Serikova will take part in the SECCA study tour to Europe, scheduled for November 2023, to learn the European experience in energy efficiency and renewable energy.

Background: The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan: delegation-kazakhstan-pic@eeas.europa.eu.

Bishkek Kyrgyzstan – Specialists of the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic and the State Agency for Architecture, Construction and Housing and Utilities (Gosstroy) under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic attended the technical workshop “Quality Control of Energy Performance Certificates”.

The workshop was organised jointly by the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic and the European Union’s SECCA project. The participants learned international experience in the legal framework and institutional arrangements regarding Energy Performance Certification (EPC) of buildings, as well as Quality Control of EPC.

Kyrgyzstan relies on oil and gas imports for more than half of its energy needs, particularly during the winter months when hydropower production is low. At the same time, according to IEA (2020), electricity consumption per capita increased by more than 45% from 2010 to 2018 in the country. Residential sector is the largest energy consuming sector[1]. Producing more energy locally and improving energy efficiency are among the Kyrgyz government’s priorities to improve the country’s energy security and reduce costs.

EPC of buildings provides information on the energy efficiency of buildings and recommendations for cost-effective improvements. In 2011, Kyrgyzstan adopted the Law “On Energy Efficiency of Buildings”. The Bylaw on Energy Performance Certification of buildings was also adopted the following year. Furthermore, there the state registries of the issued energy performance certificates and energy performance certification specialists. Since November 2021, Gosstroy has been continuously conducting qualification certification of specialists in energy certification of buildings and periodic monitoring of boilers, heating systems and hot water supply of buildings.

At present, the government aims to further improve the current system and use new construction technologies and alternative energy sources to attract investments, protect the environment and reduce harmful emissions.

During the workshop, the participants reviewed the role of EPC of buildings and current process in Kyrgyzstan with its challenges and problems. They then moved on to discuss the overall approach and main elements of quality control of EPC, also by studying the experience of EU Member States and Energy Community Contracting Parties. As quality control is one of the ways trust in this tool could be created and maintained, the discussion concluded with proposals for an improved approach to EPC quality control, its main elements and alternative options or implementation models. The SECCA project will continue working with local institutions and experts and providing technical support for the improvement of current system of EPC quality control.

[1] International Energy Agency (2020), Kyrgyz Republic Energy Profile, https://www.iea.org/reports/kyrgyzstan-energy-profile, April 2020.

Turkmenistan – SECCA Key Experts (KEs) Paata Janelidze and Ilze Purina visited Turkmenistan this week and held meetings in Ashgabat and Mary with representatives of the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Education, the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan, and the Turkmengas State Concern. Improvement of energy efficiency (EE), introduction of renewable energy (RE) sources into power generation system, possibilities for methane emissions reductions and raising public awareness on sustainable energy were the main topics of discussions.

With one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world, Turkmenistan relies heavily on this resource as it covers most of the country’s energy needs, as well as its exports. Low tariffs for electricity and natural gas led to low awareness on EE. As a result, the country was ranked among top-5 most energy-intensive economies in the world in 2019.

At the same time, the country has estimated total 666 GW potential in RE. The greatest share of this potential is with the solar energy estimated at 655 GW, followed by wind and hydropower. The development of this sector, along with reduction of methane emissions (from energy, agriculture and wastes) would significantly contribute to the environmental protection and energy supply, as well as fulfilment of the country’s climate targets, i.e. achieving zero growth of greenhouse gas emissions starting in 2030, and significant reductions of emissions in the longer term.

During the visit’s first day, the project experts met with the specialists of the Ministry of Energy in Ashgabat to explore cooperation in the fields of EE and RE. They discussed the SECCA work plan for Turkmenistan, preparations for the forthcoming EU Sustainable Energy Days (SEDs) in Turkmenistan, potential technical assistance from the project, and support in drafting legal and regulatory documents.

The project experts also met with representatives of the Ministry of Education to plan out identification of the most energy efficient school of the Ashgabat city and conducting activities with schoolchildren to raise awareness on sustainable energy among the school teachers, students, parents, and the general public.

The project team spent the subsequent two days in Mary, where, Mr Janelidze, Ms Purina and Ms Jemal Durdykova, expert of the UNDP project “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated Green Urban Development in Ashgabat and Avaza” met the management of the State Energy Institute (Institute) and the Scientific-Production Centre under the Institute. Discussions covered the Institute’s activities, including green hydrogen initiatives, the need for SECCA’s technical assistance, and the SEDs programme. The SECCA KEs and the UNDP expert also addressed approximately 150 senior students from the Institute, delivering presentations integrated energy and climate planning, RE/EE project cycle, climate finance, and on municipal solid waste-to-energy projects. The Institute specialists, in turn, demonstrated their pilot energy projects.

The next day, the technical workshop “Study of international experience in development of regulatory legal acts and regulatory and technical documents in the field of energy saving and EE” was jointly organised with the UNDP project for the teachers and professors of the Institute. SECCA presented on two topics: (i) Renewable Energy in Central Asia: Possible Small and Medium Scale Solutions; (ii) Experience of holding Sustainable Energy Days in Central Asia.

Upon returning to Ashgabat, the team met with the Turkmengas State Concern to discuss Turkmenistan’s accession to the Global Methane Pledge, which is on the country’s political agenda, and explored possible solutions to address the issue of the Darvaza crater.

On the final day of the visit, the team reconvened with the Ministry of Energy to inform on the visit’s outcomes. In the afternoon, SECCA participated in the 6th meeting of the Development Partners Climate Group, co-organised by the UNDP and the British Embassy, presenting its activities in Turkmenistan.

Recognizing that the Turkmen Government has undertaken first important steps towards transition to a more sustainable energy system, now is the prime moment for the key stakeholders, both national and international, to act and step up cooperation. Turkmenistan already adopted the Law on Renewable Energy Sources in 2021 with a focus on development of RE and provision of major incentives for RE projects, whereas a new Law on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving is currently under consideration of the Parliament of Turkmenistan. Moreover, the Government intends to continue exploring green and blue hydrogen production possibilities in the country. The European Union welcomes these initiatives and stands ready, through its SECCA project, to support Turkmenistan’s aspirations and targets on the path to sustainable energy transition and sustainable development.

Astana, Kazakhstan – Representatives of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, national line ministries and government agencies, the European Union (EU), international organisations and partners, national and international experts, business and non-governmental organisations attended the II Political Dialogue “Global Methane Pledge: World Experience and Kazakhstan”.

The Policy Dialogue was organised jointly by the Committee on Ecology and Nature Management of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Ecology and  Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the REC “Green Academy”, with the support of the EU, USAID, and EBRD.

The purposes of this meeting were to discuss the international experience of joining Global Methane Pledge (GMP), the results of a country capacity assessment carried out by national and international experts, and the development of recommendations to Kazakhstan ahead of the upcoming 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28).

Led by the United States and the EU, GMP was launched at COP 26 in November 2021 in Glasgow. Its overall goal is to reduce global methane emissions by at least 30% below 2020 levels by 2030. Meeting the GMP target has the potential to make an enormous impact on climate change. It is particularly important to act in the period up to 2030, as sharp cuts in methane can deliver a net cooling effect within a relatively short period. This could keep the door open to a 1.5°C stabilisation in global average temperatures (IEA, 2022). More than 150 countries, signatories to the Paris Agreement, have already joined the GMP.

In Kazakhstan, methane emissions amounted to 2 million 400 thousand tons or 17.6% of the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2021. The country’s energy sector is responsible for 49.5% of it, this contribution having increased sharply compared to 30.6% in 2020 (Green Academy, IGTIPC, 2023). Reduction of these emissions is considered in the updated Nationally Determined Contributions of Kazakhstan (NDC) submitted in June 2023, and certain actions have already been undertaken by the Government.

Accession to GMP would enable Kazakhstan to achieve its climate goals, mitigate climate change, prevent environmental degradation, introduce new technologies, as well as to access climate finance.

The EU’s SECCA project will provide support by conducting an analysis of the methane emissions by sectors for 1990-2021, developing of scenarios of changes in methane emissions up to 2030, taking into account NDС. At the meeting, SECCA Team Leader Paata Janelidze presented on the priorities and implementation of GMP in Central Asia.

Following the discussion, the participants presented draft recommendations to the Government of Kazakhstan to achieve climate neutrality by 2060. These recommendations include scaling and decentralisation of renewable energy sources, introduction of Best Available Techniques and Strategic Environmental Assessment mechanisms, support and stimulation of transition of transport from diesel fuel to electricity, improvement of GHG emissions monitoring system, introduction of transparent and effective emissions trading system (ETS) and its integration into international ETS (EU), development of hydrogen, bio and other alternative energy to ensure the country’s energy security.