This article announces the adoption of harmonised minimum energy performance standards for air conditioners and refrigerators in the 16 member countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). It also explains the process by which these harmonised standards were developed and adopted.
This article explores how the Central American Integration System (SICA) has helped lead the way to improve energy efficiency in appliances at the regional level, and the opportunities that further harmonisation could generate.
This brief explains the importance and benefits of an internationally harmonized quality assurance framework for small scale solar photovoltaic (pico-PV) products. Benefits are outlined for specific stakeholder groups, and a summary of the Lighting Global Quality Assurance (QA) Framework is provided for reference.
This brief explains the role of product testing in standard-setting for off-grid solar products. It provides recommendations based on good practices and explains how the Lighting Global Quality Assurance Program can help governments implement and enforce standards.
This policy brief provides guidance on the importance of quality standards for stand-alone solar products; how to develop and adopt standards, and the current status in Africa; common challenges encountered in this process; and market surveillance; as well as recommendations for governments.
This report by the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) shares opportunities, challenges and good practices related to advancing gender equality in electricity infrastructure projects.
This guidance note outlines the advantages and risks of pumped storage hydropower projects, and provides advice for how projects can be structured and funded.
This report by the Alliance for Rural Electrification explores the role of women in advancing electrification and socio-economic development in rural communities and gives examples of ways to integrate gender equality throughout the off-grid energy supply chain.
This report assesses the effectiveness of women in energy networks worldwide and offers best practices and recommendations for networks under development or those aiming to enhance their impact.
UNDP’s Gender Equality Seal has been implemented under different names in 11 countries and has engaged over 1400 companies. Companies, including many in male-dominated sectors such as the energy sector, can qualify for the seal by following a ten-step plan.