Project Objectives:
The primary aim of this competition is to accelerate the development and deployment of new or enhanced clean energy access within the designated regions. Projects must contribute to a just and inclusive energy transition, ensuring that the benefits of clean energy are accessible to all, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 and 13.
Essential Project Requirements:
- Projects must develop innovative products, processes, or services that address both energy access and clean energy.
- Emphasis is placed on establishing robust local partnerships within eligible Official Development Assistance (ODA) countries.
- Projects must demonstrate clear social or economic benefits within the targeted regions.
- A demonstrable focus on improving access to affordable, clean energy for underserved populations is essential.
- Projects must target eligible countries within Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, or the Indo-Pacific.
- Clean energy solutions must be affordable, reliable, and low-carbon, promoting a fair and equitable transition.
- Priority areas include clean hydrogen, critical minerals, clean transport, energy efficiency, energy storage, inclusive energy, industrial decarbonisation, smart energy systems, and sustainable cooling.
- Over 50% of the project's work must be centred on energy access and innovation.
- Projects must include a UK registered administrative lead, and a minimum of one international partner.
- Projects must involve at least one micro, small, or medium-sized enterprise (SME).
- Projects must conform to specified funding and project duration constraints.
Eligible Geographical Regions:
- Sub-Saharan Africa: A comprehensive listing of eligible nations is provided.
- South Asia: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka.
- Indo-Pacific: Encompasses eligible ASEAN countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam) and Pacific Island nations (Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu). 1
1. www.norrag.org
www.norrag.org
- Projects focused on Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, DRC, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are particularly encouraged.
Funding and Eligibility Criteria:
- Project costs must be within the range of £50,000 to £300,000.
- Project duration must be between 6 and 12 months.
- Funding is provided in the form of a grant, with funding percentages varying based on organisation size.
- Projects must demonstrate ODA compliance and address Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) considerations.
- Successful applicants will be enrolled into the Innovate UK’s Energy Catalyst Accelerator programme, which offers Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA).
Important Considerations:
- Projects must not contravene UK sanctions.
- Projects involving animal research must adhere to stringent welfare and ethical standards.
- Certain project types and activities are ineligible for funding.
- Capital expenditure within ODA-eligible countries is permissible.
- The inclusion of international partners is a mandatory requirement.
- Subcontractors are permitted.
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