UNCCD. Tunis, October 26-29, 1998

Transcription

1 UNCCD Report on the Workshop on Networks for the Promotion of Renewable Sources of Energy and environmentally sound Eco-technologies within the framework of the Regional Action Programme (RAP) to Combat Desertification in Africa Tunis, October 26-29, 1998 Rapport sur l Atelier pour la Promotion des Energies Nouvelles et Renouvelables et les Technologies Respectueuses de l Environnement dans le cadre du Programme d Action Regional (PAR) de Lutte contre la Désertification en Afrique Tunis, octobre 1998

2 Acknowledgement This report benefited from valuable contributions offered by the representatives of African specialised institutions and their cooperating partners. The UNCCD Secretariat is very grateful to the World Bank/ Regional Program for the Traditional Energy Sector (RPTES) and the " Institut de l'energie et de l'environnement de la Francophonie" (IEPF) who co-sponsored the workshop on a network for promotion of new and renewable energy sources and technologies in the context of the Regional Action Programme to Combat Desertification in Africa. The UNCCD Secretariat extends its thanks also to the Government of Tunisia for having accepted to coorganize the meeting under the aegis of H.E. the Minister of the Environment and land use planning. Remerciements Ce rapport a bénéficié des contributions pertinentes des représentants des institutions africaines spécialisées et de leurs partenaires de coopération. Le Secrétariat de la CCD est très reconnaissant à la Banque Mondiale/ Programme du Secteur des Énergies Traditionnelles (RPTES) et à l'institut de l Énergie et de l'environnement de la Francophonie (IEPF), qui ont bien voulu co-financer l'atelier sur la promotion d'un réseau pour les énergies renouvelables et les technologies respectueuses de l environnement dans le contexte du Programme d'action Régional de lutte contre la désertification en Afrique. Le Secrétariat de la CCD exprime également ses remerciements au Gouvernement de la Tunisie qui a accepté d'accueillir cet atelier placé sous le haut patronage de S. E. Monsieur le Ministre de l'environnement et de l'aménagement du Territoire. 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL REPORT...4 I - INTRODUCTION...5 II - OPENING CEREMONY...5 III- THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE PLENARY SESSION...6 WORKING GROUP 1: A STRATEGY FOR THE PROMOTION OF NEW ENERGIES WITHIN THE FORMULATION PROCESS OF THE REGIONAL ACTION PROGRAMME (RAP) TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION IN AFRICA...11 WORKING GROUP II...17 A. MODES OF COOPERATION...17 B. CHANNELS AND MEANS TO MOBILIZE RESOURCES...17 RAPPORT GENERAL...22 I - INTRODUCTION...23 II - CEREMONIE D OUVERTURE...23 III - DEROULEMENT DE LA SEANCE PLENIERE...24 GROUPE DE TRAVAIL N 1: STRATEGIE DE PROMOTION DES ENERGIES RENOUVELABLES DANS LE CADRE DU PROCESSUS DE FORMULATION DU PROGRAMME D ACTION RÉGIONAL (P.A.R.) DE LUTTE CONTRE LA DÉSERTIFICATION EN AFRIQUE...31 GROUPE DE TRAVAIL N A. MODALITES DE COOPERATION :...38 B. VOIES ET MOYENS POUR LA MOBILISATION DES RESSOURCES :...39 DOCUMENT DE REFERENCE SUR: LES OBJECTIFS DE L ATELIER, QUELQUES ASPECTS IMPORTANTS DES PROBLEMATIQUES A EXAMINER, LA METHODE D APPROCHE AINSI QUE LES RESULTATS ATTENDUS...44 REGIONAL WORKSHOP ON NETWORKS FOR THE PROMOTION OF NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND ECO- TECHNOLOGIES IN THE CONTEXT OF THE REGIONAL ACTION PROGRAMME (RAP)TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION IN AFRICA...60 ATELIER RÉGIONAL RELATIF À LA MISE EN PLACE D UN RÉSEAU POUR LA PROMOTION DES SOURCES D ÉNERGIE RENOUVELABLES ET LES ÉCOTECHNOLOGIES DANS LE CONTEXTE DU PROGRAMME D ACTION RÉGIONAL DE LUTTE CONTRE LA DÉSERTIFICATION EN AFRIQUE...83 AGENDA ORDRE DU JOUR LIST OF PARTICIPANTS/ LISTE DES PARTICIPANTS

4 GENERAL REPORT Regional workshop on Networks for the Promotion of Renewable Sources of Energy and environmentally sound Eco-technologies within the framework of the Regional Action Programme to Combat Desertification in Africa *********** Tunis, October 26-29,

5 I - INTRODUCTION 1. The Regional workshop on the promotion of Renewable Energies and appropriate Eco-technologies within the framework of the Convention to combat desertification in Africa, was held at El Mechtel Hotel in Tunis, Tunisia, October This workshop is the fifth of a series of seven thematic consultations coming within the framework of the process of elaborating the Regional Action Programme to Combat Desertification in Africa. 2. The workshop was held jointly by the Secretariat of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (CCD), the Government of Tunisia, the Energy Programme of the World Bank (RPTES) and the Environment Institute of Francophone Countries (IEPF), with the participation of about forty participants representing specialized African Institutions, Intergovernmental organizations, National Organizations of Renewable Energies Development as well as Non-Governmental organizations and resource persons. 3. The objective of this workshop consisted in defining priority activities and strategies necessary for the promotion of renewable energies at the national, subregional and regional levels. The workshop also aimed at identifying a federative mechanism such as the establishment of a continental network through a consensus approach. 4. The purpose was to bring out through a consensus and pragmatic approach the major lines of a continental network capable of consolidating the framework of information and expertise exchange, consultation and coordination, as well as consolidating the harmonization of approaches within the framework of the Regional Action Programme to combat desertification. II - OPENING CEREMONY The Opening Ceremony was held under the aegis of the Minister of the Environment and the Land use Planning of Tunisia, His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Mehdi Mlika. and five short speeches were delivered as follows: - Mr. Salem El Golli, Director-General of the National Agency of Renewable Energies (ANER) followed by the projection of a documentary on Renewable Energies in Tunisia; - Mr. Ben Abdallah Boufelja, Representative of the Acting Director of IEPF; - Mr. Boris Utria, Coordinator of RPTES-World Bank; - Mr. Mohamadou Mansour N diaye, Representative of the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. - His Excellency, Mr. Mohamed Mehdi Mlika, Minister of the Environment and the Land use planning of Tunisia In his introductory speech, the Director-General of the ANER expressed his welcome to the participants of this workshop. After indicating the importance of renewable energies in combating desertification, the IEPF representative stressed the necessity for this type of meeting which could not be 5

6 replaced by the modern instruments of information circulation. He also insisted on the role his institution can play in the regional action programme to combat desertification in Africa that is being formulated. As to the RPTES Coordinator, he spoke of the consequences of desertification one of which is the migration phenomenon, a way of life which constitutes a strategy forcing the populations living in affected areas to leave them. Consequently, within a more global strategy to combat poverty, he considers that multisectorial networking could highlight renewable energies. The representative of the Secretariat of the Convention to Combat Desertification (CCD) accounts for the meeting by referring to the conclusions of the Pan-African Conference on the implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification that was held in Ouagadougou in March At the close of this conference, a resolution was adopted in keeping with the elaboration of the Regional Action Programme and relevant to the convention provision to combat desertification. Seven topics, one of which is about renewable energies and ecotechnologies, were selected and will be discussed in workshops. Their results would constitute the framework of the Action Programme to Combat Desertification and reduce the impact of drought in Africa. In his speech, the Minister of the Environment indicates the readiness of the Tunisian authorities to support African causes. While mentioning the promotion of renewable energies, he considers that their massive use, in the African context, should go beyond the simple reduction of CO2 and the protection of the environment. They should be perceived as an alternative to improve the conditions of water and electricity supplies and so combat poverty. This is the philosophy underlying the political will of Tunisia to promote these energies through the creation of the National Agency for Renewable Energies (ANER). III- THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE PLENARY SESSION 1. The formation of the Bureau The workshop bureau was formed after the opening ceremony. Its formation was subjected to consultation and approved by acclamation by the assembly. Its formation was as follows: - Chairman: Mr. Salem El Golli - Director-General of the ANER/Tunisia; - Vice-chairman and First Rapporteur: Mr. Alioume Ndiaye, Director-General - ESIE-UPDEA-Côte d'ivoire; - Second Rapporteur: Doctor Iba Kone, Programmes Director-African Academy - of Sciences (AAS), Kenya; - Facilitator: Mr. Sécou Sarr, Enda-tm, Dakar; - Resource-person: Mr. Mohamadou Mansour N'diaye (CCD). 2. Adoption of the Agenda The agenda and the programme were adopted by acclamation. 6

7 3. Introductory note to the proceedings of the plenary session Mr. Aklé pointed out namely that the object of the present discussion was to respond to two key provisions of the CCD Pan-African conference, held in Ouagadougou, inviting the Secretariat to: (i) (ii) facilitate the RAP process for Africa through networking regional cooperation of all regional and subregional African institutions provided with competences in the field of renewable energies and ecotechnologies; to consolidate the support promotion of renewable energies and in Africa. After shedding light on the evolution of the process, he gave information about the objectives and the expected results of the workshop and about work methodology. The results aim at identifying the activities that should be promoted at the regional level in the field of renewable energies and ecotechnologies use as well as at elaborating an interinstitutional and coordination strategy of collaboration between the institutions with a regional and subregional vocation. 4. Synthesis of Information Notes a) Notes presented by national and subregional institutions and non-governmental organizations. About fifteen information notes were presented by the Representatives of African institutions and agencies in charge of the production, development and dissemination of Renewable Energies and technologies respectful of the environment. Therefore, a number of lessons may be drawn and itemized: - The existence of a large number of institutions having a long experience in matters of conception, development and dissemination of renewable energy; - Lack of exchange between institutions, hence the necessity of establishing synergy between them for a greater complementarity and a perfect consistency in their work relations; - Diversification in the institutions' fields of intervention. They are the fields of research-development, training, information and sensitizing, definition of policies and strategies, studies and implementation etc.; - Diversification in the experimented technologies ranging from photovoltaic solar energy, windpumps, water heaters, biogaz, improved stoves, etc. It also appears that some of these key activities undertaken now by these institutions within the framework of biomass energy (ovens, biogaz, improved stoves, etc.) and solar/wind energy, fit perfectly in the CCD objectives at the national, subregional and regional levels. Moreover, the participants stressed the existence of very active networks in several fields related to Renewable Energies. However, strategies must be elaborated with a view to ensuring the development of interactive relationships. 7

8 b) Communications of International Institutions Two international institutions, IEPF and the Energy Programme of the World Bank (RPTES) presented their experiences related to renewable energies and ecotechnologies. As far as IEPF is concerned, it focused essentially on its experience namely in the following fields: training, energy control, and assistance for the implementation of fieldwork projects. Still with a view to reinforcing capacities, IEPF set up different networks such as the International Network on Solar Energy (RIES), GITER (Technical International Group of Rural Electrification) and the Energy Biomass Group (GBE). Concerning the World Bank representative, he informed the workshop about his institution which assists African countries, in the field of domestic fuel, to undertake studies and strategies for a sustainable, participatory management of traditional and substitution energies. He eventually emphasized the approach of the Bank which intends to be participatory through the use of existing capacities and seeks to support the establishment of a regional network of traditional energy. These projects aim at establishing a dialogue between sponsors and recipients. The speaker also made a survey of the projects in progress and indicated the Bank's readiness to support actions consolidating the capacities of the specialized African institutions. 5. Presentation of the reference document One of the characteristics of the problem of energy on the African continent is the strong prevalence of traditional energies (wood, charcoal, vegetable refuse, etc.) in the continent's energy balance sheet. Biomass, in its diverse forms represents the 2/3 of the households' global energy consumption. This situation is partly responsible for the real environmental crisis from which the continent suffers since the satisfaction of the populations' basic needs in energy was made possible through the increasing exploitation of the natural resources with all the expected consequences such as deforestation, ground erosion, desertification and more generally poverty. In the perspective of satisfying the populations' needs in water and energy, renewable energies with their potentialities as well as ecotechnologies appear as viable alternatives. Attempts were made for a better exploitation and development of local potentialities. This meant: - on the one hand, the introduction of technologies (photovoltaic, thermic, wind, biomass or micro-hydraulic energy) to bring solutions mainly to the populations living in arid and semi-arid areas, and, on the other hand - the taking of initiatives in the field of biomass, namely in matters related to the productivity increase of the real wood resources, the creation of new forest resources, but mainly to the perfection and adoption of improved stoves as well as to the implementation of substitution programmes in some areas. 8

9 Nowadays, the different experiences conducted in national and subregional programmes with different actors such as the partners in development, indicated in the end the validity and adaptability of some technologies to local conditions. In the same way, some measures, namely in the perspective of reducing pressure on vegetation, are still of great interest. However, the massive dissemination of new technologies, despite our interest in it in a more global perspective of combating poverty, is still confronted to many obstacles some of which are the following: - The lack of a consistent dissemination policy of TER. - Inadequacy between the acquisition cost (initial investment) of some technologies and the low income level especially in rural areas due to the absence of an appropriate financing mechanism. - The lack of local expertise to ensure a sustainable energy service. - The multiplicity of actors without a national mechanism of coordination and without harmonizing actions. After categorizing the existing networks in the field of renewable energies and ecotechnologies, the document proposed an approach enabling the establishment of a Pan- African network likely to develop the experience asset and to make information available to all development operators. It also proposed actions to be undertaken at the regional level, consisting in : - consolidating the capacities of subregional and regional institutions in charge of energy in order to bring African solutions to the challenges facing the continent; - facilitating the circulation of information, the exchanges of experiences and popularization; - assisting subregional institutions in harmonizing the member countries' policies so as to create a large market; - listing African competences in the field; - assisting in knowing TER through the creation of database on technologies. This basic work paved the way for a debate about the dissemination of renewable technologies and brought out the main lines for the establishment of terms of reference serving as guidelines for workshops. 6. Reviewing the discussions A debate about some questions followed the different communications, namely the necessity for the definition and the implementation of inciting policies likely to promote the massive use of technologies related to renewable energies. The assembly also discussed the possibilities of consolidation cooperation between the different specialized institutions. In particular, it maintained the principle of thinking during the committee workings over the modes of setting up a network which will be in charge of coordination at the regional level of forms of cooperation between the above-mentioned institutions. 9

10 At the close of this general discussion, two groups were formed to deliberate on the two following themes: Strategies to be considered and priority activities to be identified. Promotion of a network between specialized African institutions. These two themes formed the subject of the two working groups' terms of reference listed below. 7. Terms of reference Group N 1: I/ II/ III/ IV/ As institutions specialized in the field of renewable energy sources and ecotechnologies, what are the major activities related to combating desertification and part of your respective mandates? On the basis of your experiences, what are the major constraints hindering your activities related to the promotion of the sources of renewable energies and ecotechnologies? What is the strategy to be proposed aiming at favouring best the use of the sources of renewable energies and ecotechnologies within the framework of the Regional Action Programme to Combat Desertification? On the basis of the documents of reference prepared by the consultants and the information presented by the institutions, what are the priority activities to be proposed within the framework of the RAP formulation process? Group N 2: I/ II/ III/ In order to consolidate cooperation between the African institutions specialized in the sources of renewable energies and ecotechnologies, what are the modes of cooperation to be set up at the national, subregional and regional levels within the context of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification? Indicate the channels and means to be considered for an adequate mobilization of financial resources intended for the formulation and implementation of activities related to the promotion of the sources of renewable energies and ecotechnologies within the framework of the African Regional Action Programme to Combat Desertification? After examining the document entitled "Suggestion for network collaboration between institutions, organizations, agencies and bodies within the RAP", the working group must decide on the following points: institutional measures to be established; - selection criteria of a Focal Point; mandate and role of a Focal Point to facilitate and coordinate between the activities to be considered in the field of the sources of renewable energies and ecotechnologies in the RAP context. The two working groups' conclusions are to be found in the document annex. 10

11 WORKING GROUP 1: A STRATEGY FOR THE PROMOTION OF NEW ENERGIES WITHIN THE FORMULATION PROCESS OF THE REGIONAL ACTION PROGRAMME (RAP) TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION IN AFRICA The working group, whose list of participants is in the annex, analyzed the theme through the following four subthemes : - Major activities run by states and different institutions to combat desertification ; - Constraints hindering the implementation of activities concerning the promotion of renewable energies and ecotechnologies ; - Strategies to the proposed for a better use of renewable energies and ecotechnologies within the framework of the RAP ; - The identification of priority activities to be proposed within the formulation process of the RAP. The participants included representatives of countries, subregional, regional and international institutions, as well as NGOs and private individuals. I. Major activities undertaken Every participant presented the activities of his institution in the field of renewable energies and combating desertification. These presentations indicated that these activities are quite varied. However, they can be grouped into three major categories : - Activities of popularization and dissemination of renewable energies technologies and ecotechnologies (solar equipment, wind pump, equipment of biomass transformation) ; - Activities of support and promotion of renewable energies (research/development, environmental studies, technical studies, elaboration and assessment of projects, information, sensitizing and communication.) ; and last - Activities concerning the sustainable management of natural resources (development of forests and slope basins.). These overall activities give an idea of the competences to be mobilized within the framework of national, subregional and regional action programmes. 11

12 II. Constraints experienced by those who intervened at different levels The nature of constraints Levels National S-Regional Regional 2.1 High costs of technologies and equipment X X X 2.2 Low level of project financing X X X 2.3 Insufficiency of the exchange of information, communication and publication of results and low level of information, sensitizing and communication X X X 2.4 Poor Knowledge of the environment X X X 2.5 Insufficient human resources for : The formulation of bankable projects Research in the field of renewable energies X X X X X X 2.6 Lack of professionalism in the private sector X 2.7 Economic environment not much in favour of the private sector X 2.8 Low level of coordination between : Projects at the states level Intergovernmental institutions Sponsors NGOs, and Ministries X X X X X X X X X 12

13 III. Strategies proposed to end the constraints Strategies for a solution References of the constraints At the national level At the subregional and regional levels The elaboration of an attractive Organizing the elaboration statutory, fiscal legislative of micro-credits to support framework that favours the national initiatives with a involvement of the private sector view to sharing costs between The elaboration of credits lines actors for bank institutions and Promoting the grouped sponsors purchase of equipment by a Promotion of the local group of countries production of equipment Technology transfer through Promotion of technologies experimental projects and adapted to local contexts demonstration Development of synergy Harmonizing price policies between programmes 3.1 HIGH COSTS OF TECHNOLOGIES AND EQUIPMENT 3.2 Insufficient financing of projects 3.3 Insufficiency of information and communication exchanges The necessity for countries to forego significant resources for renewable energies within the framework of national budgets and programmes financed by partners Creation and circulation of scientific newspapers and liaison bulletins Facilitating the periodical meetings of specialists Promotion of communication /advertising and marketing policy (with the collaboration and involvement of the media) Sensitizing the elite to promote renewable energies Environmental education The necessity for a better coordination of the sponsors activities according to regional specificities The formulation of needs for the development of competences The formulation of bankable projects for sponsors Creation and circulation of scientific newspapers and liaison bulletins Facilitating technical meetings of experts Harmonizing at the political level : informing about the new techniques introduced Working on WEB sites Organizing workshops to inform and sensitize the large public and the elite. 2.4 Insufficient human resources Taking into consideration socio-cultural aspects in the formulation of projects, including the participatory approach Establishing partnership between research centres and institutions Encouraging and sponsoring research results with a view 13

14 Consolidating the capacities of civil servants and civil society actors Examining closely professionalism in the sector of renewable energies technologies within national policies Promoting associations in the field of renewable energies technologies 2.5 Coordination problems Encouraging the effective implementation of the Convention provisions related to the full participation of all the parties concerned to the CCD national mechanism of coordination. to obtaining letters patent from OAPI and ARIPO as well as facilitating relations between researchers and industrialists Consolidating the capacities of existing subregional and regional institutions Promoting associations in the field of technologies and renewable energies. Encouraging, within the scope of the network to be established, the coordination of actions at the national, subregional and regional levels, with a view to elaborating operation procedure manuals as well as synergy between conventions Implementing the Convention provisions relevant to the participation of all the institutions at both the national and subregional levels Encouraging necessarily the implementation of the recommendations of the Lagos Action Plan concerning renewable energies within the framework of the Abuja treaty. 14

15 IV. Priority Activities In order to ensure the implementation of strategies capable of ending the major constraints hindering the promotion activities of renewable energies, specific and priority activities must be undertaken within the framework of the RAP, namely : Accelerating the networking of national, subregional and regional institutions as well as the networks of non-governmental actors in the field of renewable energies. Elaborating database at the regional level with a view to itemising : Expertises Enterprises Potentials (resources) Technologies Institutions Implemented projects and programmes including the implementation mechanisms. Consolidating information and sensitizing : Concerning decision makers and the elite:- Organization of technical visits with a view to exchanging knowledge and know-how permitting a transfer of techniques and technologies in the field of renewable energies. Implementating demonstration experimental projects (the number, places and themes are to be determined). Contributing to the implementation of education and training programmes in keeping with the recommandations of the meeting of Education Ministers held recently by UNESCO and the recommendations adopted by other international concertations, namely the IEPF, the RPTES, the CRAT, etc. 15

16 Working group n o 1 ANNEX Participants of Work Group N o 1 Full names Agency Countries/ Duty station AKLE Moïse CCD, facilitator Benin ASIEDU Kojo J.J. ARCT Senegal BENABDALLAH Boufeldja IEPF, Chairman Canada BESBES Ridha SONEDE Tunisia COULIBALI Yezouma EIER Burkina Faso PROGEDEST/GAA DIANKA Mamadou -RPTES Senegal DJOGBENOU Coovi Paul DFRN-RPTES Benin FALL YOHBE Ould Taleb CELED Mauritania HAMMEMI Naceur ANER Tunisia KABORE E. François CILSS/OUAGA, rapporteur Burkina Faso LO Masse ENDA Senegal NDIANGUI Ndegwa CCD Secretariat Kenya SECK Louis DE/MEMI Senegal SOUMAH Fodé Moussa Min. Nat. Res. and Energy Guinea SOUMAH Gérard SEMIS Senegal Niger TIEMOU Issoufou Energy II/VD RPTES TRAORE Beïdari Energy II/VD Rrp CNESOLER Mali 16

17 WORKING GROUP II A bureau was elected as follows:- Chairman: Bertrand ZIDA - CILSS Rapporteur: Mouslin MAIGA - UEMOA Facilitator: Mohamadou Mansour N diaye - CCD Secretariat A. MODES OF COOPERATION 1. The representative of the CCD Secretariat pointed out the vocation and the content of the Regional Action Programme (RAP) in accordance with article 13 of the Regional Annex for Africa of the Convention, namely the coordination between the Sub- Regional Action Programmes (SRAP), the promotion and the consolidation of their capacities, the promotion of information exchange, the coordination between exchange networks and their integration into world networks. Consequently, the group agrees that the vocation of the RAP is not to be operational on the ground. 2. Bearing this principle in mind, the group identified the following main lines of cooperation : The inventory of regional, subregional and national competences in the field of renewable energies; The dissemination of the information and the experiences built-up over the years; The harmonizing of policies in the field of renewable and means of intervention. An approach was suggested to consolidate cooperation between African institutions and consisted in the support of the implementation of transboundary projects such as those that are being formulated between different African subregions like the AMU countries and those of the CILSS, or also between the countries concerned by the revitalisation of the Khalari-Namib Plan. The African political authorities will is perceived by the group as a determining factor for the success of the enterprises consolidating work relations between African institutions specialized in the field of renewable energies and intervening in the implementation process of the CCD. In the end, the group recommended the use of networks as a mode of cooperation to promote renewable energies within the framework of the RAP. B. CHANNELS AND MEANS TO MOBILIZE RESOURCES The group noted that there are financial resources at the international level. However, the access to these resources for the financing of the activities related to combating 17

18 desertification remains limited. The group mentioned the CCD provisions of articles 20 and 21 which determine the orientations for the mobilization of adequate financial resources and mechanisms to be provided in order to facilitate the implementation of activities related to combating desertification. Taking into consideration these orientations and the austere financial, international environment, a strategy was proposed, founded on a multisource approach to mobilize financial resources necessary for the elaboration and implementation of activities relevant to the promotion of renewable energies within the framework of the RAP. The group identified the following actions to be undertaken : The establishment and the consolidation of existing financial mechanisms to combat desertification; The adaptation of national legislation to the CCD provisions; The establishment of fiscal policies in favour of the promotion of renewable energies sources; The use of decentralized financial systems and the involvement of users in the financing of the renewable energies infrastructures. Sensitizing subregional and regional financial institutions (BOAD, ADB, BADEA, etc...) to integrate into their projects/programmes the environmental dimension specific to desertification; The consolidation of cooperation linkages between specialized African institutions and international institutions active in the field of renewable energies, namely the Energy Programme of the World Bank (RPTES), IEPF, EU, IBD,... Henceforth, it is recommended to form an informal consultation group composed of the RPTES, the IEPF and the CCD Secretariat, in collaboration with major cooperation partners, in order to facilitate the mobilization of the funds necessary for the implementation of activities related to the promotion of renewable energies. The RPTES, the IEPF and the CCD Secretariat are invited to meet soon so as to determine the modes and conditions to launch the consultative process aiming at involving the cooperation partners concerned. The group also insisted on the necessity of a greater synergy between the different Rio Conference Conventions (Biodiversity, Climatic Change and Combating Desertification) and any other relevant treaty. The use of mechanisms and international funds acting in the field of environment and sustainable development (Global Mechanism, FEM/GEF...); 18

19 In particular, the group recommended the presentation of a request to the Global Mechanism to Combat Desertification, concerning the priority activities identified within the scope of the renewable energies promotion in Africa. The group also recommended the establishment of a Regional Facilitation Funds for the implementation of activities related to renewable energies, implying that the funds will also be a source of financing activities related to the promotion of renewable energies. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS The group reviewed the document entitled Asuggestion for networking between institutions, organizations, agencies in the context of he RAP@.The ensuring lively discussions led to the definition of the network, its objectives and duties, the choice of selection criteria of an institution that should serve as focal point, the operating modalities of the network and the implementing of activities linked to renewable energy sources in the context of the Regional Action Programme to Combat Desertification in Africa. Definition of the Network The network is a framework bringing together institutions, organizations and other interested partners for more effective consultations, coordination and harmonization of policies and strategies linked to renewable energy sources in the context of the Regional Action Programme to Combat desertification in Africa. Objectives of the Network - To facilitate the exchange of information and data, experience, local know-how among institutions involved in the CCD process, especially at Regional level; - To set up an integrated information system, strengthen their use in the existing documentation centres and create data banks on renewable energy sources for use by the interested actors implementing the RAP; - To ensure coherence for more effective implementation of national and subregional action programmes in the area of renewable energy sources; - To facilitate technology transfer and adaptation through scientific and technical cooperation between members of the network and with the outside world whilst ensuring that the gender aspect is given due consideration in these activities. Modus Operandi The group had exchanges on the operational relations between the RAP, the SRAP and the NAPs. It laid special emphasis on the need to ensure a harmonious articulation between the three levels. The group made the following recommendations: - to designate a specialised institution or organisation as the focal point of the 19

20 networks; - to facilitate the elaboration of a handbook of procedures and operations of the networks. Composition of the Network The network will comprise different specialized institutions and organizations, representatives of civil society, in particular NGO=s active in the combat against desertification and cooperating partners. Membership of the networks will be open according to conditions to be determined by the handbook of procedures. Main Duties of the Network - Identify studies to be developed by relevant organisations, - Promote the use of modern tools of Communication (Internet, web pages) to facilitate exchanges between members of the network, - Organizing of network meetings, seminars/workshops, programme reviews, publication and dissemination of results in collaboration with the Regional Coordination Unit; - Assist African countries and institutions in locating data and information related to renewable energy sources and check their relevance for the followup of any changes; - As the main transit point of information provided by its members, the network will be an essential point of thematic information in addition to direct exchanges between members of the network; The details of duties to be carried out by the focal point will be finalized in consultation with the designated institution. Selection Criteria for an Institution as Focal Point The meeting proposed the following criteria: - Willingness and commitment to cooperate and contribute in formulating and implementing the RAP in the area of renewable energy sources ; - Proven capacity: geographical representation (African institutions and other specialized institutions based in Africa), human resources, competence in the area of renewable energy sources, appropriate infrastructure, institutional capacities, technical and communication equipment; 20

21 - The focal points activities should have a direct link with renewable energy sources aiming at improving livelihood; - Ability and readiness to cooperate and to conduct joint or complementary missions or activities with other missions at the regional and international levels; - The ability to mobilize financial resources to support the network and to harmonize its activities with those of the network. Selection Modalities of the Focal Point With regard to the choice of the focal point, the group recommended that the CCD Secretariat invites all the specialized institutions to make known their desire to host the focal point, and to submit their candidatures to the CCD Secretariat on the basis of the criteria and the role assigned to the focal point. Furthermore, the group recommended that these candidatures should reach the Secretariat three months before the Forum on the Regional Action Programme to Combat Desertification, which will take place during the second part of This will give the Secretariat enough time to compile information contained in the applications and submit a list to the Ministerial Segment of the RAP forum that will designate the institutional focal point. The mandate of the Focal Point will be defined in a fixed term work plan. It could be renewed after assessment of activities undertaken by the Focal Point. 21

22 RAPPORT GENERAL Atelier Régional pour la Promotion des Energies Nouvelles et Renouvelables et les Technologies Respectueuses de l Environnement dans le cadre du Programme d Action Régional de lutte contre la Désertification en Afrique ********************** Tunis, octobre,

23 I - INTRODUCTION 1. L Atelier Régional sur la promotion des Energies Renouvelables et des technologies respectueuses de l Environnement dans le cadre du Programme d Action Régional de lutte contre la désertification en Afrique, s est tenu du 26 au 29 octobre 1998 à l hôtel El Mechtel, à Tunis, en Tunisie. Cet atelier est le cinquième d une série de sept consultations thématiques s inscrivant dans le cadre du processus d élaboration du Programme d Action Régional de lutte contre la Désertification en Afrique. 2. L Atelier en question organisé, conjointement, par le Secrétariat de la Convention de lutte contre la désertification (CCD), le Gouvernement Tunisien, le Programme Energie de la Banque Mondiale (RPTES) et l Institut de l Environnement des Pays Francophones (IEPF), a vu la participation d une quarantaine de participants représentants des Institutions Africaines spécialisées, des Organisations intergouvernementales, des Institutions Nationales de Développement des Energies Renouvelables ainsi que des Organisations nongouvernementales et de personnes-ressources. 3. L objectif de l atelier consistait à définir les activités prioritaires et les stratégies nécessaires à la promotion des énergies renouvelables tant à l échelle nationale, sous régionale que régionale. L atelier visait, aussi à identifier, à travers une approche consensuelle, un mécanisme fédérateur tel que la mise en place d un réseau continental. 4. Il s agissait de dégager, à travers une approche consensuelle et pragmatique, les lignes forces d un réseau continental à même de renforcer le cadre d échange d information et d expertise, de concertation, de coordination et d harmonisation des approches dans le contexte du Programme d Action Régional de lutte contre la Désertification. II - CEREMONIE D OUVERTURE La Cérémonie d ouverture, placée sous l égide du Monsieur le Ministre de l Environnement et de l Aménagement du Territoire Tunisien, son Excellence, Monsieur Mohamed Mehdi M LIKA, a été marquée par cinq allocutions à savoir celles de : - Monsieur Salem EL GOLLI : Directeur Général de l Agence Nationale pour les Energies Renouvelables (ANER), suivie d une projection d un documentaire sur les Energies Renouvelables en Tunisie ; - Monsieur BEN ABDALLAH Boufélja : Représentant le Directeur Exécutif de l IEPF ; - Monsieur Boris E. Utria : Coordinateur du RPTES - Banque Mondiale, - Monsieur Mohamadou Mansour N'DIAYE : Représentant le Secrétaire Exécutif de la Convention des Nations Unies sur la lutte contre la Désertification. - Son Excellence, Monsieur Mohamed Mehdi M LIKA : Ministre de l Environnement et de l Aménagement du Territoire Tunisien. Le Directeur général de l ANER a dans une remarque préliminaire souhaité la bienvenue aux participants à cet atelier. Le Représentant de l IEPF dans son allocution, après avoir indiqué l intérêt des énergies 23

24 renouvelables dans la lutte contre la désertification a mis l accent sur la nécessité de ce genre de rencontre qui ne saurait être remplacée par les outils modernes de circulation de l information. Il a insisté également sur le rôle que son institution peut jouer dans le processus en cours de formulation du programme d action régional de lutte contre la désertification en Afrique. Le Coordinateur du RPTES, a quant lui, a parlé des conséquences de la désertification dont le phénomène de migration qui pousse les populations résidentes dans les pays affectés à sortir de leurs frontières. Ainsi, dans une stratégie plus globale de lutte contre la pauvreté, il considère que la mise en place de réseau multisectoriel pourrait permettre de mieux mettre en valeur les énergies renouvelables. Le représentant du Secrétariat de la convention de lutte contre la désertification (CCD) justifie la rencontre par les conclusions de la Conférence Panafricaine sur la mise en œuvre de la convention des Nations Unies sur la lutte contre la Désertification tenue à Ouagadougou en mars A l issue de cette conférence, une résolution avait été prise dans le sens de l élaboration du Programme d Action Régional conformément aux dispositions de la convention de lutte contre la désertification. Sept thématiques dont celle sur les énergies renouvelables et les écotechnologies devant chacune faire l objet d un atelier avaient été retenues. Leurs résultats constitueraient ainsi l ossature du Programme d action de lutte contre la désertification et d atténuation des effets de la sécheresse en Afrique. Le Ministre de l Environnement, dans son allocution a présenté la disponibilité des autorités Tunisiennes pour soutenir les causes africaines. En parlant de la promotion des énergies renouvelables, il considère que leur utilisation massive, dans le contexte africain, doit dépasser le cadre strict de réduction d émission de CO 2 et de protection de l environnement. Elles doivent être perçues comme une alternative d amélioration des conditions d approvisionnement en eau et en électricité dans une perspective de lutte contre la pauvreté. C est dans cette philosophie que la Tunisie manifeste entre autres, sa volonté politique de promotion de ces énergies par la création de l Agence Nationale pour les Energies Renouvelables (ANER). III - DEROULEMENT DE LA SEANCE PLENIERE 1. Mise en Place du bureau Le bureau de l atelier a été mis en place après la cérémonie d ouverture. Sa composition a fait l objet d une consultation et approuvée par acclamation par l assemblée. Sa composition était la suivante : - Président, M. Salem EL GOLLI, Directeur Général de l ANER - Tunisie - Vice-Président et premier Rapporteur, M. Mamadou ALIOUNE NDIAYE, Directeur Général ESIE-UPDEA - Côte d Ivoire. - Deuxième Rapporteur : Docteur IBA Kone, Directeur des Programmes Académie Africaine des Sciences (AAS) - Kenya. - Facilitateur : M. Sécou SARR, Enda-tm -Dakar. - Personne ressource : M. Mohamadou Mansour NDIAYE (CCD). 24

25 2. Adoption de l ordre du jour L ordre du jour et le programme de travail ont été adoptés par acclamation. 3. Note d introduction aux travaux de la séance plénière Monsieur Aklé a rappelé, notamment, que l objet de la présente rencontre était de répondre à deux dispositions charnières de la résolution de la conférence panafricaine de la CCD tenue à Ouagadougou et invitant le Secrétariat à : (i) (ii) faciliter le processus du PAR pour l Afrique par la mise en réseau de coopération régionale de toutes les institutions africaines sous-régionales et régionales ayant des compétences dans le domaine des énergies renouvelables et des écotechnologies ; concentrer les efforts d appui pour la promotion d énergies renouvelables en Afrique. A la suite d un éclairage sur l évolution du processus, il a donné des indications sur les objectifs de l atelier, les résultats escomptés et la méthodologie de travail. Les résultats visés sont entre autres d identifier les activités qu il est indiqué de promouvoir au niveau régional dans le domaine de l utilisation des énergies renouvelables et écotechnologies et d élaborer une stratégie de collaboration inter-institutionnelle et de coordination renforcée entre les institutions à vocation sous-régionale et régionale. 4. Synthèse des notes d information a) Notes présentées par les institutions nationales, sous régionales et les organisations non gouvernementales. Une quinzaine de notes d information a été présentée par les Représentants des Institutions et organismes Africains chargés de la production, valorisation, et diffusion des Energies Renouvelables et des technologies respectueuses de l environnement. Dans leurs présentations successives, les intervenants ont rappelé soit la mission, le mandat ou les objectifs de leurs institutions. Ils ont, aussi, informé l atelier de leurs activités pouvant présenter un intérêt pour le PAR. Ainsi, un ensemble d enseignements se dégage autour des points suivants : Existence d un nombre important d institutions disposant d une longue expérience en matière de conception, valorisation et diffusion d énergie renouvelable ; Manque d échange entre les institutions d où la nécessité de créer la synergie entre elles en vue d une plus grande complémentarité et d une parfaite cohérence dans leur relation de travail ; Diversification des domaines d intervention des institutions. Il s agit entre autres domaines de la recherche-développement, la formation, l information et la sensibilisation, la définition des politiques et stratégie, la réalisation d études 25

26 spécifiques et leur mise en œuvre ; Diversification des technologies expérimentées allant du solaire photovoltaïque, des éoliennes de pompage, du chauffe eau, du biogaz, fours améliorés etc. Il apparaît, également, que certaines activités clef menées actuellement par ces institutions dans le cadre de l énergie de la biomasse (fours, biogaz, foyers améliorés etc) et de l énergie solaire et éolienne s inscrivent, parfaitement, dans le cadre des objectifs de la CCD aux niveaux national, sous régional et régional. Par ailleurs, les participants n ont pas manqué de rappeler l existence de réseaux très actifs dans plusieurs domaines des Energies Renouvelables. Toutefois, des stratégies doivent être élaborées en vue d assurer le développement des rapports interactifs entre eux. Communications des institutions internationales Deux institutions internationales IEPF et le Programme Energie de la Banque Mondiale (RPTES) ont fait des communications sur leurs expériences relatives à la thématique sur les énergies renouvelables et les écotechnologies. S agissant de l IEPF l essentiel est axé sur son expérience notamment dans les domaines suivants : la formation, la maîtrise de l énergie, l assistance à la réalisation des projets de terrain. Dans le cadre également du renforcement des capacités, l IEPF a mis en place différents réseaux dont le Réseau International sur l Energie solaire (RIES), GITER (Groupe International Technique sur l Electrification Rurale) et le Groupe Biomasse Energie (GBE). Quant au représentant de la Banque mondiale, il a informé l atelier sur la mission de son institution. Il s agit notamment dans le cadre des combustibles domestiques d assister les pays africains à entreprendre des études et stratégies pour une gestion durable et participative des énergies traditionnelles et de substitution. Il a finalement souligné l approche de la Banque qui se veut participative en utilisant les capacités existantes dans le cadre d une recherche d appui à l établissement d un réseau régional d énergie traditionnelle. Ces projets visent à établir un dialogue entre les bailleurs de fonds et les pays demandeurs. L intervenant a également fait l état des lieux des projets en cours et indique la disponibilité de la Banque à soutenir les actions de renforcement des capacités des institutions africaines spécialisées. 5. Présentation du document de référence Entre autres caractéristiques de la problématique énergétique du continent africain figure la forte prépondérance des énergies traditionnelles (bois, charbons de bois, déchets végétaux, etc.) dans le bilan énergétique du continent. La biomasse, dans ses diverses formes, représente les 2/3 de la consommation totale d'énergie des ménages. Cette situation est, pour partie, responsable de la véritable crise environnementale que subit le continent puisque la satisfaction des besoins énergétiques de base des populations s est réalisée en accroissant les prélèvements sur les ressources naturelles avec tous les effets connus en matière de déforestation, d érosion des sols et de désertification et plus globalement de pauvreté. 26