For information only - not an official document

UNIS/OUS/146
25 May 2012

Re-issued as received

Italian agency ENEA and UNIDO to jointly promote renewable energy and energy efficiency in developing countries

VIENNA, 25 May (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) - The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA) have agreed to jointly promote sustainable development by transferring knowledge and technology relating to renewable energy and energy efficiency to developing countries.

Through the new partnership, UNIDO and ENEA will provide expertise to promote energy efficiency in industry and the deployment of renewable energy technology, especially for productive uses, industrial applications, and the development of rural areas.

UNIDO and ENEA will focus on capacity-building and technology transfer in developing countries, providing technical and professional training and support in the areas of ENEA competence, especially renewable energy and agro-industry.

The two organizations will also identify and promote innovative financial mechanisms to support the deployment of renewable energy technology.

To achieve these objectives, ENEA will involve a range of scientists and laboratories to help improve the quality of human resources in countries where UNIDO activities are concentrated. Through its internet platform, ENEA e-LEARN, the Italian agency provides scientific and technical expertise in the energy field, which is vital for industrial and economic growth in developing countries.

The ENEA internet platform currently provides more than 200 online courses and 300 video classes on topics such as planning and management of renewable energy sources (solar and wind energy), eco-building and new technology. The joint cooperation will enhance the dissemination of the e-learning methods developed by ENEA.

The two organizations also agreed to promote the ENEA project, Education for the future, which aims to improve schoolchildren's knowledge of sustainable development. The project fosters cooperation and partnerships between Italian and African schools, and will help supply schools in rural areas with electricity using solar photovoltaic sources.

* *** *

For more information, please contact:

Mikhail Evstafyev
UNIDO Advocacy and Communications Coordinator
Telephone: (+43-1) 26026-5021
Mobile: (+43-699) 1459-7329
Email: M.Evstafyev[at]unido.org