Partner Country Series - Clean Energy Technology Assessment Methodology Pilot Study: Belarus

Clean Energy Technology Assessment Methodology Pilot Study for Belarus

Foreword

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has conducted a pilot study using the Clean Energy Technology Assessment Methodology (CETAM) for Belarus, alongside Morocco and Kazakhstan. This study highlights the importance of increasing the deployment of clean energy technologies to reduce climate change, strengthen energy security, and boost economic productivity. The benefits of such actions extend to both developed and developing countries.

Overview

Belarus, as an Early Transition Country (ETC), has undergone significant economic changes since its independence. Despite the state's continued role in most sectors, including energy, the country has access to affordable fossil fuels (primarily gas) through its relationships with other members of the Eurasian Economic Union. This has delayed the development of domestic energy sources. The report suggests that Belarus could enhance its energy security and sustainability by further developing its renewable energy resources.

Key Findings

• Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs):

  • Prioritization: The study prioritized wind, solar, and biomass energy.
  • Current Penetration and Costs: Current penetration of these technologies is relatively low, but costs are decreasing, making them increasingly viable.
  • Cost Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring of technology costs is necessary to track progress and inform policy decisions.

• Energy Efficiency Technologies (EETs):

  • Prioritization: The study identified priority areas such as building insulation, industrial process efficiency, and transportation.
  • Metrics and Data: Detailed metrics and data were used to assess current levels of energy efficiency and identify areas for improvement.
  • Technology Monitoring System: A robust monitoring system was developed to track the adoption and effectiveness of energy efficiency measures.

Lessons Learned

• The comprehensive data collection system in Belarus facilitated the assessment of clean energy technologies.
• Significant progress has been made in curbing energy demand growth and improving efficiency, but there remains potential for further improvements.
• The availability of affordable and improved technologies presents an opportunity for "leapfrogging" traditional energy-intensive development phases.

Conclusion

The findings of this study aim to encourage more countries to adopt CETAM, thereby gaining a clearer understanding of the untapped renewable energy and energy efficiency potential. This knowledge can be used to accelerate the deployment of clean energy technologies for sustainable development.

Annexes

• Annex A: Results of the EET prioritization screening methodology.
• Annex B: Estimated market penetration of industry sector priority EETs.
• Annex C: Estimated market penetration of transport sector priority EETs.