UNEP and DNV GL partnership for clean energy projects in developing countries

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and global risk management company DNV GL have announced a new partnership to improve access to climate change mitigation and adaptation technologies in developing countries.

The agreement was signed last week and will see Norwegian company DNV GL assist the work of UNEP’s Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN).

According to DNV GL, it will support CTCN operations through technology transfer, knowledge management and capacity building, as well as engaging the private sector to stimulate technology cooperation among developed and developing countries in areas such as agriculture, energy, forestry, industry, and water.

The Norwegian Government will support the CTCN with NOK60 million (£5.85 million) over the next two years.

Achim Steiner, Under-Secretary-General of the UN and Executive Director of UNEP said: "Replacing current technologies with cleaner, low-carbon alternatives is a vital part of tackling the causes and effects of climate change. The strategic partnership between CTCN and DNV GL will play a vital role in accelerating the use of new technologies in improving the lives and livelihoods of millions of people in developing countries who are dealing with the impacts of climate change on a daily basis."

93 countries have established national CTCN focal points, known as National Designated Entities, since UNEP launched the initiative in 2013, which collaborate with country stakeholders to develop and relay requests to the Climate Technology Centre's network of regional and sectoral experts from academia, the private sector, and public and research institutions.

Representatives from 74 countries have been trained by the CTCN through regional training initiatives across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Henrik O. Madsen, DNV GL Group President and CEO, said: “We are pleased to support the CTCN through our technical capabilities and global networks. We support its vision to lead the world towards a low-carbon and climate resilient future. Indeed, we have decided to invest our time and resources in this initiative as it is closely linked to our own vision of creating a safe and sustainable future through safer, greener and smarter growth. We will focus our efforts on the CTCN’s call for a confluence of technology, knowledge management, and stakeholder involvement skills. We believe a close collaboration with the private sector will be essential for the success of the technology mechanism.”