3DEN Digitalization For Energy Systems in Africa Phase II ($30k Grants)

Following up on the COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is launching the second phase of the International Energy Agency (IEA) led Digital Demand-Driven Electricity Networks (3DEN) Initiative, an inter-agency initiative.

The initiative aims to accelerate global climate action and uptake of clean energy models, building on the success of Phase I. The second phase was kicked off with the launch of a call for pilot projects on digitalisation for flexible and resilient energy systems targeting eight countries – Brazil, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.

This expansion aligns with Italy’s “Piano Mattei” and the “Rome Process”, which aim to deepen partnerships between Italy and Africa, focusing on sustainable development and energy transition.

Eligibility Criteria

• Eligible Themes: Projects must align with sustainable agro-food solutions (Type I) or urban energy systems (Type II).

• Budget Range: US$ 500,000 to US$ 2,000,000 (excluding co-funding).

• Co-funding: Minimum 30% from external sources (cash or in-kind), including public/private partners, DFIs, and donors.

• Geographic Focus: Brazil, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Tanzania.

• Implementation Timeline: Max duration of 24 months.

• Consortium Requirement: Must be submitted by international consortia (public, private, research entities) with strong local presence and expertise. A signed MoU or letter of intent from all members is required.

Submission Details

• Language: All sections of the application form and the proposal must be completed in English.
• Submission: Completed proposals must be sent via email to 3DEN@energy-base.org. Please ensure that your submission is completed and sent before the deadline on 23rd May 2025.
• Contact for Clarifications: If you have any questions or require clarification on the application process, feel free to contact the UNEP project team:
  • Aarth Saraph (email: aarth.saraph@un.org)
  • Carolina Merighi (email: carolina.merighi@un.org)

Application Timeline

Launch of Call for Proposals: 13th January 2025
Informational Webinar: 20th January 2025
Proposal Submission Deadline: 23rd May 2025
Proposal Evaluation Period: 24th May 2025 – August 2025
Project Start Date: Q4 2025

We strongly encourage you to attend the Informational Webinar on 20th January 2025 to gain valuable insights into the application process and evaluation criteria.

Fill out the form below to access the CfP and Application Form. Once completed, submit your proposal via email to 3DEN@energy-base.org. We look forward to receiving your innovative ideas and working together to drive impactful change.

Deadline: 23rd May 2025

Click HERE to Apply

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