Catalyser for Renewable Energy Transition in Eswatini

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy is inviting proposals from Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to submit proposals for renewable energy adoption/expansion projects under the Catalyser for Renewable Energy Access and Transition in Eswatini (CREATE) programme, implemented by the UNDP Eswatini and Catalyse Swaziland.

CREATE will support qualifying MSMEs with technical support to facilitate access to finance and develop a conducive environment for the transition to renewable energy and energy efficiency, thereby enhancing the sustainability and competitiveness of their enterprises.

Eligible MSMEs:

• MSMEs must be registered in Eswatini and operate in the following sectors or beyond: agriculture, manufacturing, ICT and services. 
• Be compliant with national statutory obligations – tax laws, labour laws, social and environmental considerations.
• Have business processes that use/require some form of energy for production to happen, i.e. electricity, gas, wood, etc.
• Demonstrate ability to keep financial records.
• Must have standalone or commercial business operating premises.
• Youth- and women led businesses are strongly encouraged to apply.

Projects eligibility criteria 

Projects MUST demonstrate at least one of the following:

• Expansion of renewable energy access for MSMEs – solar PV, biogas, energy efficiency packages.
• Productive use of energy – irrigation, processing, cold storage, ICT services, general lighting and production equipment
• Strengthening value chains in key sectors – agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, or services using clean energy.
• Have a clear strategy for reinvesting energy savings for scale or growth.

Proposals should include: 

• Name and type of business
• Operation premises’ physical address 
• Clear plan of adopting and expanding to renewable energy and energy efficiency.
• Financial proposal
• Supporting documents – registration certificate, Energy Utility Bill records and any other evidence of concept.