ISO 9001:2015 & ISO 27001:2022 Certified Organization
From March 2022 to September 2023, a consulting service was provided to develop Model Solar Standards and a Model Common Customs Tariff Framework for solar products within the COMESA region. This assignment was carried out under the auspices of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the World Bank, aiming to facilitate the adoption of these models at the national level across member states.
The consultancy's primary goal was to create standards and frameworks that would streamline the use of solar energy in the region. The process included collecting and reviewing relevant literature, engaging stakeholders through consultations, and drafting the model solar standards. For the tariff framework, the tasks involved reviewing existing solar tariff frameworks, analyzing bilateral and multilateral agreements, formulating a draft model common tariff framework, and organizing a validation workshop.
Additionally, the consultancy provided technical support to COMESA member states to help domesticate and adapt these proposed standards and frameworks. This support included assessing specific technical requirements of member states, assisting at least five countries on a demand-driven basis, identifying states that required further technical assistance, and advising on regional integration activities within the off-grid energy sector. The consultancy also focused on establishing standards and guidelines for installing solar equipment and off-grid projects, as well as advising on procedures to remove barriers to off-grid solar to promote better integration.
