B7-6201/97-21/VIII/FOR "Regional biomass energy conservation programme for Southern Africa" by GTZ

Objective : To contribute to the improvement of the quality of life for the poor rural and urban populations by enabling them to fulfil the energy needs of households and small-scale industries in a socially and environmentally sustainable manner. Enhance capacities and commitments of governments and development institutions/organisations in six SADC countries to plan and implement integrated biomass energy conservation programmes.

Beneficiaries : Family households in rural and urban areas, especially poor women and children who are responsible for providing household energy. Small-scale industries on tobacco curing, brick burning, bakeries.

Results : Integrated energy-saving measures for households and small businesses. Decision-makers use advisory services of RBECP for planning integrated biomass energy conservation measures. A support network of local organisations in the region providing advisory services for the implementation of BEC measures.

Activities : Collect and analyse data on the biomass situation in the six partner countries with special consideration for gender aspects. Install a database and train partners to use it. Install a regional and national monitoring and evaluation systems. Identify local know-how. Elaborate a training concept on planning, technology selection/adaptation, sensitisation, monitoring, gender orientation, etc. Training in planning, implementing and monitoring integrated and sustainable biomass energy conservation projects (BECP). Assess existing technology and innovation potential of household-and small-scale industry devices (including solar devices). Training of specialists in energy-saving technology adaptation and development for households and small-scale business. Develop new and adapt existing energy-saving technologies for households and small-scale industries. Support production, marketing and installation of energy-saving technologies. Elaborate strategies to promote rational biomass use measures. Exchange of experience among partners Prepare regular short-issue papers for policy and decision-makers and organise regional conference on special subject matters as well as establish a regional support network

Coordination : WB, FAO, DGIS, GTZ.