Today, two public kindergartens in Përmet Municipality received a major upgrade with the installation of solar photovoltaic systems, thanks to the Government of Japan. The official handover ceremony was attended by Japanese Ambassador to Albania Ms. Kato Kikuko, UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Monica Merino, the Mayor of Përmet Alma Hoxha and other municipal officials. This event marked a significant milestone in the municipality’s transition to sustainable energy.

The newly installed solar systems, with a combined capacity of 100 kWp, are expected to save approximately €31,428 annually in energy costs for the two kindergartens. These installations are part of a broader project that includes ten solar PV grid-connected systems across public buildings in Shkodra, Dibra, Klos, and Përmet, totaling 542 kWp. Collectively, these systems will cut carbon emissions by an estimated 20,000 tons over their 25-year lifespan and provide clean energy to around 2,124 children, public officials, and community members.

This project, titled "Market Transformation for Solar Power Photovoltaic Acceleration in Albania," is funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, the Agency for Energy Efficiency, and local governments. The initiative aims to accelerate Albania’s shift toward renewable energy sources.

With $859,000 USD in funding from Japan, the project supports Albania’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and strengthens the country’s dedication to climate-resilient development.

Japanese Ambassador Kato Kikuko remarked: The objective of this project is to support Albania’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to climate change in a sustainable manner. The installation of solar photovoltaic systems in the municipalities in Albania including Përmet will diversify Albania's energy sources beyond hydropower, thereby reducing the country's reliance mainly on a single source of energy. This will guarantee a reliable electricity supply and facilitate sustainable economic growth in the country, while also advancing Albania's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC). The Government of Japan thus donated the necessary funding to UNDP. We also organized an international seminar together with UNDP for sharing the relevant expertise with the participation both from Japan and Albania.. I would like to extend my gratitude to the UNDP team and the Përmet municipal team for their dedicated efforts throughout this project.”

UNDP Resident Representative Monica Merino added, “This initiative marks a significant advancement toward achieving the Nationally Determined Contributions. It will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 20,000 tons and directly benefit more than 2,000 people. We are grateful for Japan’s invaluable support, which helps transform climate commitments into impactful actions. Japan remains a key partner in making meaningful strides toward a net-zero future.”

The project not only supports the installation of solar energy systems but also promotes policy support, and skill development to enhance Albania’s renewable energy landscape. By leveraging Japanese expertise and technology, the project boosts technical capabilities and entrepreneurship in the solar energy sector, illustrating successful collaboration among Japan, UNDP, and local stakeholders in advancing sustainable development goals.

Aligned with the goals outlined at COP26, UNDP through the climate promise initiative reiterated its commitment to supporting countries in translating NDC targets into actionable initiatives. Albania's enhanced NDC, submitted in October 2021, demonstrated a resolute commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and embracing clean energy solutions.

The transformative potential of solar energy is already evident through ten pilot projects implemented across Dibra, Klos, Shkodra, and Përmet municipalities, resulting in enhanced access to solar, energy for thousands of Albanian citizens.