KFAED, UNDP sign $3 mln Lebanon solar deal

KFAED Acting Director General Rasheed Al-Bader and UNDP Resident Representative Emma Morley during the signing of a $3 million grant agreement to boost renewable energy solutions in Lebanon.

KUWAIT CITY, July 21: The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) signed a USD 3 million grant agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Tuesday to help finance a solar energy project supporting public services in Lebanon. The agreement was signed by Acting Director General of KFAED Rasheed Al-Bader and UNDP Resident Representative in Kuwait Emma Morley. Al-Bader told KUNA the project aims to improve the sustainability and reliability of electricity supplies at priority public institutions in Lebanon by installing photovoltaic solar energy systems and enhancing energy efficiency. He said the project will reduce reliance on diesel generators, lower operating costs, improve the continuity of essential public services, cut emissions from conventional energy sources and promote the sustainable use of energy.

The project includes installing photovoltaic solar systems at beneficiary institutions, implementing energy efficiency measures and providing the necessary equipment and related infrastructure, Al-Bader said. He stated that the project also includes building the technical capabilities of personnel and concerned authorities in the field of systems operation and maintenance and sustainable energy management, while strengthening operation and maintenance arrangements to ensure sustainability and maximize project outcomes. Al-Bader said the grant reflects KFAED’s commitment to supporting sustainable development across Arab countries through projects that improve infrastructure, strengthen essential public services and enhance institutions in facing challenges. He added that the agreement underscores the longstanding strategic partnership between KFAED and UNDP, reaffirming the fund’s commitment to supporting Lebanon in addressing current development challenges.

For her part, Morley said partnerships are essential to addressing global development challenges, adding that cooperation between the two sides will strengthen public institutions, support climate action and generate sustainable economic, social and environmental benefits. She added that UNDP and KFAED have worked together for years to support sustainable development and build more resilient communities. KFAED and UNDP maintain a longstanding development partnership, with the fund contributing around USD 15 million to joint projects supporting vital initiatives in several countries, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development and humanitarian response. (KUNA)