Call for Proposal to Promote Renewable Energy Access through PUE in Zambia

Objective

• The Grants Programme aims to support relevant organizations that are advancing PUE activities across a range of sectors and electrification contexts in Zambia. The Programme is specifically targeting initiatives that promote PUE in the context of renewable energy mini-grids for local development in rural and peri-urban areas of Zambia.

Funding Information

• Grant Amounts of up to USD 20,000 Per Organization
• Period of assignment/services: 7th October 2024 to 31st March 2025

Projects 

• Only Projects aimed at achieving the objectives (2), focusing on the priority themes as indicated in the Call for Proposals and meeting all other requirements as outlined in the Call for Proposals, are eligible for funding.

Geographical Scope 

• National Call Across all Provinces in Zambia

Eligibility Criteria

• To be eligible for a grant, applicants must:
  • Be a Zambian organization, registered in Zambia for at least 2 years (Proof of registration should be attached).
  • Be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the project, i.e. not acting as an intermediary.
  • Have a local bank account in the name of the organisation.

Criteria

• Experience
  • Minimum of 2 years of proven experience in managing and implementing community engagement activities, particularly in productive use of electricity (PUE), local economic development, and renewable energy projects.
  • Preferred experience in working with marginalized groups such as women, youth, persons with disabilities, and hard-to-reach populations.
  • Proven linkages and networks with grassroots actors, especially those based in rural and peri-urban areas.
  • Understanding of local economic, social, and energy dynamics, as well as cultural communication and social mobilization related to PUE.
  • Demonstrated capability in financial management.
• Registration
  • Legally Registered Zambian civil society organization, non-governmental organisations, Community based organisation, private sector/small medium enterprises registered in Zambia for at least 2 years, having emphasis on the inclusion of marginalized social groups including women and youth is preferred.
  • Be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the project, i.e. not acting as an intermediary.
  • Have a local bank account in the name of the organisation
• Capacity
  • Demonstrated ability to build upon existing or ongoing community-level activities that promote productive uses of electricity (PUE).
  • Proven impact on improving social and economic livelihoods within the community.
  • Commitment to a gender-inclusive approach in project design and implementation.
  • Capacity for innovation and diversification of economic activities within target communities.
  • Strong management and operational capabilities with a focus on cost efficiency.
  • Potential for commercial sustainability and financial self-reliance beyond the grant period.

Ineligible

• The following types of project proposals are not eligible for funding:
  • Project proposals concerned only or mainly with individual sponsorships for participation in workshops, seminars, conferences, congresses.
  • Project proposals concerned only or mainly with individual scholarships for studies or training courses.
  • Credit or loan schemes.
  • Project proposals which consist exclusively or primarily of capital expenditure e.g., land, buildings, equipment, vehicles, etc.
  • Project proposals which do not demonstrate equal treatment for individuals or groups of people on grounds of their gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, or lack of them, or their ethnic origin.
  • Cash donations.
  • Political parties or religious activities.
  • Project proposals that support activities that are not in line with the values of the UN or that provide funding for any criminal activities including but not limited to terrorism.

For more information, visit UNDP.