The Zimbabwe UNDP-G.E.F solar project for rural household and community use in Zimbabwe

The Global Environmental Facility (G.E.F.) Solar Photovoltaics for Household and Community Use in Zimbabwe is funded by the UNDP Global Environmental Facility which funds new approaches to reducing pollution and global warming. The Zimbabwe G.E.F. Project is designed to promote use of solar photovoltaic (PV) lighting systems in rural households, communities, co-operatives and small scale farms. The project is expected to realize 9 000 lighting systems during the period 1994 – 1997. While this project engages in rural electrification and thereby uplifting the living standards of the rural people, it nonetheless addresses the problem of global warming by offering an environmentally benign solar energy resource. Other objectives of the project include enhancement and upgrading of the indigenous solar manufacturing companies, development of an expanded solar market in the rural areas and a financing mechanism, training of technicians and end users. The project's expected are unfolding gradually. There has been access to imported solar components, a financial credit scheme has been established, community participation through Rural District Councils, NGOs and cooperatives is being encouraged. Participation of Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) in the project has been worked out. Public awareness campaigns are being held through mass media, exhibitions and fairs. The project is working to meet the set objectives in conjunction with electricity utility, installers, end-users, manufacturers, finance houses. NGOs, donors and community based organizations.