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The UNFCCC Means of Implementation division organized a side event on supporting the implementation of technologies through technology needs assessments (TNAs) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) on 6 June with support of the UNEP-Copenhagen Climate Centre (UNEP-CCC), NDC Partnership and the UN Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN).
The event aimed to enhance understanding of the synergies between TNAs and NDCs, to highlight countries’ experiences, and to learn about funding opportunities for TNAs. More than 100 participants attended the side event physically and virtually, including governmental agencies and institutions, private sector representatives, NGOs, and other technology community stakeholders.
Daniele Violetti opened the event, highlighting a strong need for the mainstreaming of prioritized technologies into NDCs, followed by a UNEP-CCC presentation describing experiences managing the global TNA project. The secretariat presented the fourth TNA synthesis report and its main findings, while the CTCN shared its experience implementing technology projects in developing countries supported by the Green Climate Find (GCF). The NDC Partnership elaborated on its efforts to use technology information from TNAs in facilitating the updating of NDCs. ENDA Energie from Senegal spoke about their experiences in supporting African countries on project proposals. Thailand presented technology projects and explained how they are prepared for financing by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the GCF.
The side event continued with a rich Q&A session, during which several participants expressed concern that a large technology implementation gap still exists in many developing countries, especially least developed countries and small island developing states. It was acknowledged that side events like this one bring together experienced actors to share knowledge and stimulate collaboration with a view to address this gap.
Participants agreed there are several crucial elements comprising technology development and transfer, namely economic and financial, legal and regulatory, institutional and organizational capacities, and information and awareness, that must be aligned and addressed holistically to achieve success. It was noted that many TNA countries have benefited from the new Technology Executive Committee (TEC) guidebook on TAPs. Using the new guidebook, Parties were better able to identify the specific actions needed for successful technology implementation and to develop indicative investment and technology inclusive proposals.
Participants noted that countries seldom see the TNA as a stand-alone process, but rather as one that complements national mitigation and adaptation policies and plans. Several countries reported linkages between their TNA and NDCs, with some consulting TNAs and TAPs in their preparation. There was broad consensus that garnering private sector commitment to governmental work on technologies remains difficult and that it is important to manage expectations.
Lastly, participants agreed that a 2022 event focused on global TNA implementation would be beneficial to discuss further experiences and lessons learned, and to focus on enablers of technology development and transfer with the view to further accelerate implementation.
For more information about the TNA side event, please visit here.