Launch of the International Network of Solar Technology and Application Resource Centres (STAR C) within the GN-SEC

Recently, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the International Solar Alliance (ISA), with funding of the Government of France, have launched the project “Structuring of an International Network of Solar Technology and Application Resource Centres (STAR C)”. 

The overall objective it to create a strong network of institutional capacities within ISA Member States to enhance quality infrastructure for the uptake of solar energy product and service markets, particularly in least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS). 

To have more impact and to create economies of scale, the STAR C has adopted a regional approach and will be implemented in partnership with the Global Network of Regional Sustainable Energy Centres (GN-SEC). The first phase of the STAR C project will focus on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the East African Community (EAC), the Pacific Community (SPC) and partly the Hindukush-Himalaya. The partners will closely work with ECREEE in Cape Verde, EACREEE  in Uganda, REEECH in Nepal and PCREEE in Tonga. 

Currently, the partners are seeking consultancy support regarding solar energy quality infrastructure and are recruiting national STAR C coordinators in Senegal, Bhutan and Tonga. The processes are open for applications by 15th and 16th Janaury 2023.