On November 4, USAID’s Energy Secure Armenia Activity implementer Tetra Tech ES, Inc. and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund signed a Partnership Agreement. According to this Agreement, the Fund will receive a support for the implementation of several renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. We are grateful to USAID and Tetra Tech ES, Inc. for their continuous support to the development of the energy sector of the Republic of Armenia.

Russian version 

 Armenia ENERGY EFFICIENT REGIONS: INTRODUCING MECHANISMS TO INCREASE ENERGY SAVINGS IN PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND PROMOTING “GREEN ENERGY”

 The Republic of Armenia has received financing from the Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development (hereinafter - EFSD) in the amount of 1,719,200 (one million seven hundred nineteen thousand two hundred) US dollars toward the cost of the project "Energy Efficient Regions: Introducing Mechanisms to Increase Energy Saving in Public Buildings and Promoting “Green Energy" (hereinafter - Project) and intends to apply part of the proceeds of the above Grant towards payments for works and related consulting services to be procured under this project.  more

Russian version 

Armenia

ENERGY EFFICIENT REGIONS: INTRODUCING MECHANISMS TO INCREASE ENERGY SAVINGS IN PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND PROMOTING “GREEN ENERGY”

 EFSD Grant

Assignment Title: Investment Grade Energy Audit of Beneficiary Buildings

Reference No.: EFSD -CS/1/2022

The Republic of Armenia has received financing from the Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development (EFSD) toward the cost of the “Energy Efficient Regions: Introducing Mechanisms to Increase Energy Saving in Public Buildings and Promoting “Green Energy” Project, and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include investment grade energy audit of the selected public buildings, including review of the existing operational characteristics of the buildings (about 15 buildings), formulation of investment and energy audit report.

The overall duration of the assignment is 6 months. The commencement of Services is planned since September 15, 2022.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment is attached to this request for expressions of interest.

The Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2), acting as project implementation unit (“PIU”) now invites eligible individuals (“Consultants”) to express their interest in providing the Services. Interested individuals should provide Curriculum Vitae (CV) demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

Qualification requirements are:

• Minimum 3 years of relevant professional experience in energy audit. International experience will be an advantage.
• Knowledge in energy policies and energy management procedures of Armenia will be an advantage.
• Experience with the ESCO business models (energy analysis and audits, energy management, project design and implementation, maintenance and operation, monitoring and evaluation of savings, property/facility management, energy and/or equipment supply, provision of service) will be an advantage.
• Experience in performing economic and financial feasibility analysis.
• Master’s degree in Engineering.
• Knowledge of Armenian, Russian, knowledge of English is a plus.

Selection criteria:

• General qualifications and experience,
• Qualifications and experience in the area of the required Consulting Services,
• Adequacy for the assignment,
• Knowledge of languages.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection method for Individual Consultants set out in the Procurement Procedures of Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development (last approved in November 2018).

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours 29/1 Sayat-Nova Ave., 0001 Yerevan, Armenia, +(374-10) 58 80 11, +(374-10) 54 51 21 from 09:00 to 18:00.

CVs must be delivered in a written form to the address below in person, or by E-mail by September 6, 2022.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency (R2E2) Fund Attn:

29/1 Sayat-Nova Ave., 0001 Yerevan, Armenia

Tel: +(374-10) 58 80 11, +(374-10) 54 51 21

E-mail: zaruhi.gharagyozyan@r2e2.am

Attention: Mrs. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan

Karen Asatryan, Director of the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund took part in the meetings of the Climate Investment Funds Trust Fund Committee and Sub-Committee held in Washington, DC, on June 20-24, as an elected member of the Fund. The current programs and projects of the fund were discussed during the CFF Trust Fund committee and subcommittee meetings. In the course of the visit, Karen Asatryan also met with the heads of the Green Climate Fund.

Stakeholder Consultation and design of Two Concept Notes, Reference No.: GCF-CS/4/2022 REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Consulting services – national firms selection Armenia READINESS SUPPORT FOR ACCREDITATION GAP ASSESSMENT, CAPACITY BUILDING AND PIPELINE DEVELOPMENT FOR POTENTIAL ACCREDITED ENTITY PROJECT, GCF Grant No.: ARM-RS-004 Assignment Title: Stakeholder Consultation and design of Two Concept Notes   Reference No.: GCF-CS/4/2022 The Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2) has received financing from the GCF toward the cost of the “READINESS SUPPORT FOR ACCREDITATION GAP ASSESSMENT, CAPACITY BUILDING AND PIPELINE DEVELOPMENT FOR POTENTIAL ACCREDITED ENTITY” PROJECT, and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. The consulting services (“the Services”) include designing project portfolio for potential accredited entity (R2E2 Fund) following review of the national long-term policies in the domain of energy efficiency and renewable energy and in close consultations with potential stakeholders (relevant ministries and agencies, municipalities, private sector representatives and international development partners). The overall duration of the assignment is 16 weeks. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment is attached to this request for expressions of interest. The Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2) now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are: General experience of the company in implementation of similar assignments (engagement with private sector and implementation of consultations, design, review, assessment and/or implementation of the national policies in the domain of energy efficiency and renewable energy).  Specific experience of the company in engagement within the projects implemented and/or financed by Climate Funds and/or designing and/or implementing projects for Climate Funds and MDBs.  Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016, setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.  In addition, please refer to the following specific information on conflict of interest related to this assignment: Refer to information on conflict of interest related to the assignment as per paragraph 3.17 of the Procurement Regulations. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications, but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Consultant’s Qualifications-Based Selection method set out in the Procurement Regulations. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours 29/1 Sayat-Nova Ave., 0001 Yerevan, Armenia, +(374-10) 58 80 11, +(374-10) 54 51 21 from 09:00 to 18:00. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below in person, or by E-mail by May 17, 2022. Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency (R2E2) Fund Attn: 29/1 Sayat-Nova Ave., 0001 Yerevan, Armenia Tel: +(374-10) 58 80 11, +(374-10) 54 51 21 E-mail: zaruhi.gharagyozyan@r2e2.am Attention: Mrs. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan  

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Consulting services – national firms selection

Armenia

READINESS SUPPORT FOR ACCREDITATION GAP ASSESSMENT, CAPACITY BUILDING AND PIPELINE DEVELOPMENT FOR POTENTIAL ACCREDITED ENTITY PROJECT, GCF

Grant No.: ARM-RS-004

Assignment Title: Stakeholder Consultation and design of Two Concept Notes

  

Reference No.: GCF-CS/4/2022

The Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2) has received financing from the GCF toward the cost of the “READINESS SUPPORT FOR ACCREDITATION GAP ASSESSMENT, CAPACITY BUILDING AND PIPELINE DEVELOPMENT FOR POTENTIAL ACCREDITED ENTITY” PROJECT, and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include designing project portfolio for potential accredited entity (R2E2 Fund) following review of the national long-term policies in the domain of energy efficiency and renewable energy and in close consultations with potential stakeholders (relevant ministries and agencies, municipalities, private sector representatives and international development partners).

The overall duration of the assignment is 16 weeks. 

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment is attached to this request for expressions of interest.

The Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2) now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are:

General experience of the company in implementation of similar assignments (engagement with private sector and implementation of consultations, design, review, assessment and/or implementation of the national policies in the domain of energy efficiency and renewable energy).

 Specific experience of the company in engagement within the projects implemented and/or financed by Climate Funds and/or designing and/or implementing projects for Climate Funds and MDBs.

 Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016, setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.  In addition, please refer to the following specific information on conflict of interest related to this assignment: Refer to information on conflict of interest related to the assignment as per paragraph 3.17 of the Procurement Regulations. 

Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications, but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Consultant’s Qualifications-Based Selection method set out in the Procurement Regulations.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours 29/1 Sayat-Nova Ave., 0001 Yerevan, Armenia, +(374-10) 58 80 11, +(374-10) 54 51 21 from 09:00 to 18:00.

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below in person, or by E-mail by May 6, 2022.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency (R2E2) Fund Attn:

29/1 Sayat-Nova Ave., 0001 Yerevan, Armenia

Tel: +(374-10) 58 80 11, +(374-10) 54 51 21

E-mail: zaruhi.gharagyozyan@r2e2.am

Attention: Mrs. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan

 

On October 6, public hearings were held in the conference hall of the Shengavit administrative district of Yerevan. The event was dedicated to the environmental and social impact of the 250 kW floating solar power plant planned to build on Lake Yerevan. The Head of the Department of Ecology of Yerevan Municipality Gevorg Nazaryan, project stakeholders, representatives of state bodies, environmental NGOs, and R2E2 `s partner French organization  TRANSENERGIE were present at the meeting. The project development` s importance and forthcoming works were discussed during  the meeting. The participants` questions concerning the plant construction site were responded to in detail, recommendations and concerns expressed were recorded and considered in the course of project design.

A 600 kW solar power plant will be built in the city of Artik in the framework of the "EU4 Energy - Armenia " program. The project is implemented by the "Foundation to Save Energy"  (ESF). The project contractor is "ECOVILLE"  solar technology company; the project design is prepared by " JINJ"  LLC, technical supervision of the project is carried out by Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. Meetings are held with the experts from the participating companies to discuss the plant construction issues, implemented works, and the next steps.

The French TransEnergy plans to build a floating solar power plant in Armenia -told in his interview to Sputnik Armenia Karen Asatryan, Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. The floating solar plant with an installed capacity of 151 kW is the first of its kind in the region. The annual yield of the plant is estimated nearly 250 thousand kWh / year. For this purpose, a group of specialists from France and experts of the R2E2 Fund are studying Aparan, Azat reservoirs, and Lake Yerevanyan.

On April 28, 2021, the Innovative Solutions for SDG Implementation in Armenia Program Board meeting was held via video conference.

The meeting was attended by Acting Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan, Chief of Staff of the acting RA Deputy Prime Minister, Deputy Chairman of the board Bagrat Badalyan, UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia, Board Co-Chair Shombi Sharp, Acting UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia Michaela Stoikoska, representatives from the Russian government and embassy, the RF-UNDP Targeted Development Fund and others.

Director of the R2E2 Fund Karen Asatryan presented the works carried out by the Fund in the framework of the Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Development Goals implementation in Armenia program.

The first floating solar plant development project launched in Armenia jointly with the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and French company TRANSENERGIE.

PJN-Consulting company ecologist Philippe Jean arrived in Armenia to get acquainted with the project-related activities. Within the visit framework, a meeting was held with the Director of the "Center for Environmental Impact Assessment" SNCO and the Head of Nature Protection Department of Yerevan Municipality to discuss the water basins' environmental problems, legislative regulation, and other issues. During the site visits, the experts assessed the three selected basins with the Fund's specialists for the construction and further operation of the floating solar plant.

It is expected to study the existing reservoirs in Armenia and conduct the reservoirs' technical and financial feasibility to construct and operate floating solar plants in the project framework. Based on the studies' outcomes, a pilot floating solar photovoltaic plant with a capacity of about 150 kW will be built in Armenia. more

The 17th International Specialized Exhibition "Caucasus Building and Reconstruction EXPO 2021" organized by the "LOGOS EXPO Center" and the Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen of Armenia kicked off in Yerevan on March 25, 2021. Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund is the partner of the exhibition.

The Fund participates in the three-day exhibition with its pavilion, which features various videos about the Fund's activities, information about its services, and energy-saving materials.

The traditional annual "Caucasus: Building and Reconstruction EXPO 2021" is the largest construction exhibition in Armenia, considered a working platform for establishing business contacts between domestic and foreign manufacturers, and providing information about the construction market.

Exhibitors are more than 90 local and foreign companies, such as construction, consulting, and design organizations, occupying the market's leading position.

The first solar floating plant development project was launched in Armenia on March 1, 2021, jointly with the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and French company TRANSENERGIE.

In the project framework, it is expected to study the existing reservoirs in Armenia and conduct technical and financial feasibility of the reservoirs for the construction and operation of floating solar plants. Based on the studies' outcomes, a pilot floating solar photovoltaic plant with a capacity of about 150 kW will be built in Armenia.

In the EE project framework, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund has implemented the following ESMs in Mrganush community of Ararat region, RA.

•  Improvement of external artificial lighting system As part of the project, an artificial street lighting system containing 8 high- pressure sodium (DnAT) 250W lamps and 12 compact fluorescents (CFL) 90W lamps were replaced with 20 energy-efficient 50W LED light bulbs. The external  artificial lighting system was connected to the common electrical meter of the community administraton building and the culture house. The annual savings will be 3,687 kWh, and the yearly reduction in CO₂ emissions will be 2 tons.
•  Installation of solar photovoltaic system in community-owned facilities To reduce energy consumption, a solar photovoltaic system with a total capacity of 30 kW was installed on community facilities' roofs. The capacity of the installed system was estimated according to the energy consumption of the community- owned facilities. The annual savings will be 45,000 kWh, and the yearly reduction in CO₂ emissions will be 20 tons.

On January 14, 2021 the Government of Armenia approved the Energy Development Strategic Plan until 2040.

One of the directions in the strategic program provides for new tenders for the construction of 7 solar photovoltaic plants with a total installed capacity of about 520 MW, of which two will have a capacity of 200 MW each. The Government of the Republic of Armenia aims to increase the share of solar energy production by at least 15% or 1.8 billion kWh in total by 2030. For this purpose, about 1,000 MW of solar power plants will be built, including autonomous ones.

On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Armenia, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund will hold tenders for solar projects.

Discussions on the “RA National Program on Energy Saving and Renewable Energy” for 2021-2030 and a three-year program for the implementation of its first stage are in process. Activities are carried out in accordance with the agreement signed between the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and the United Nations Development Program.

It is planned to evaluate the previous National Energy program of the Republic of Armenia, assess its effectiveness, reveal the problems of the sector and set up priority actions for the next 10 years.

The first stage involves assessing the results of the National Program on Energy Saving and Renewable Energy for 2010-2017, as well as initiatives and programs related to the sector.

At the second stage, it is envisaged to develop the National Program on Energy Saving and Renewable Energy for 2021-2030 based on the results of the 1st stage and identify current development trends. Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund cooperates with “AVAG SOLUTIONS” Ltd and “SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF ENERGY” CJSC in the framework of the agreement. Well-known consultants in the sector are also involved in the development of the program.

SPV system suppliers met with the R2E2 Fund specialists on October 8, 2020. It wasplanned to install SPV systems in the schools (one school in each region) of Aragatsotn, Gegharkunik, Kotayk and Shirak regions.

The Fund’s procurement specialist introduced the participants to the bidding procedures and answered questions. Solar expert of the Fund described the technical specifications of the SPV modules and qualification requirements, and noted that there will be strict control over the proper implementation of the project.

On the Prime Minister’s instruction, R2E2 Fund is going to install SPV systems in the schools (one school in each region) of Aragatsotn, Gegharkunik, Kotayk and Shirak regions. The project will be implemented with the financial support of the Fund. The project was presented in the course of the meetings with the governors. Relevant authorities of the communities submitted the list of preferred schools that are interested to participate in the project, particularly Ttujur village secondary school SNCO, Gegharkunik region, Aygabats secondary school SNCO, Shirak region, Zoravan secondary school SNCO, Kotayk region, Mastara secondary school SNCO, Aragatsotn region. SPV system installing company will be selected during the tender.

We are pleased to announce the collaboration of Green Energy and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. Green Energy Armenia Consulting provides highly specialized advisory services in the construction and crediting of solar PV plants and supports in the preparation of the entire documentation offered by KFW Bank.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency fund is scaling up Energy Efficiency project in non-gasified communities, which will now include all the communities of Armenia, without exception (including cities), but giving priority to the frontier and non-gasified communities.

The objective of the project is to make investments in clean energy sector, aimed at improving energy efficiency in communities, reducing electricity consumption of households, as well as for legal entities by using electricity from alternative sources.

Issuance Date: June 15, 2020

Deadline for Receipt of Questions: June 19, 2020 at 05:00 PM, Yerevan, Armenia Closing Date and Time: July 1, 2020 at 05:00 PM, Yerevan, Armenia

Issuance of this RFP does not constitute an award commitment on the Tetra Tech ES, Inc., nor does it commit to pay for any costs incurred in preparation or submission of comments/suggestions of a proposal. Proposals are submitted at the risk of the offerors. All preparation and submission costs are at the offeror’s expense. document

Notification: Replies to requests of clarifications received by June 5 under RFQ of Ayg-1 Project will be provided by June 12, 2020.

Revised Request for Qualification.pdf

Request for Qualification. pdf

• Taking into account the decree 1922 – L adopted by the Government of the Republic of Armenia on December 26, 2019, according to which the Government of Armenia approved “Masdar Armenia” Investment Project, the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia has initiated to undertake an international tender that will invite other companies to submit a competitive tariff.
• Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (the Fund) by the request of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures of the Republic of Armenia is seeking private developers or consortia for a project to design, finance, build, own, and operate the grid-connected 200 MW solar PV power plant (the Project – "Ayg-1"). The Project will have a requirement for an AC capacity of 200 MW at the Electrical Delivery Point and will be located between the communities of Talin, Dashtadem and Ashnak in the Aragatsotn marz of the Republic of Armenia.
• The Project will be developed on a Design, Finance, Build, Own, and Operate (DFBOO) basis under one special purpose company (the Project Company) to be jointly owned by the Successful Bidder (85% ownership) and Armenian National Interest Fund CJSC (ANIF) (15% ownership). The Project Company is to be established and incorporated in the Republic of Armenia specifically for the needs of this Project.
• The selection of a bidder to develop the Project will be conducted in two stages. The first stage is the RFQ to prequalify the prospective bidders with required experience and financial resources to deliver the Project as per the requested timeline. The second stage will require bidders to submit proposals in response to the Request for Proposals (RFP). The initiator of the investment project, Masdar Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, will be given an opportunity to match its offer with the lowest bid tariff proposed by other Pre-Qualified bidder by proposing at least USD 0,1 cent per kilowatt hour (kWh) lower tariff in case it has not quoted the lowest tariff. The timetable, which is contained in Section 6, provides an overview of the main components of the tender process for the Project.
• The Fund now invites prospective bidders (each, a Prospective Bidder) capable of meeting the qualification criteria set out in this RFQ document to submit prequalification applications electronically in accordance with the requirements of this RFQ document (each, a Prequalification Application). However, to be eligible to participate, Prospective Bidders will be required to register for the prequalification and make a payment in the amount of US$1,000 through a wire transfer to the commercial bank account of the Fund presented below. The evidence confirming the payment should be included in the Prequalification Application.

Wire transfer details for RFQ Participation Fee: Beneficiary name: R2E2 FUND Beneficiary account 217001007855103 USD

Beneficiary Bank HSBC Bank Armenia CJSC  Yerevan, Armenia SWIFT address: MIDLAM22

Correspondent Bank HSBC Bank USA New York US SWIFT address: MRMDUS33

• Only bidders designated as prequalified bidders pursuant hereto (Prequalified Bidders) will be eligible to participate in the RFP stage of the selection process to be initiated by the Fund in due course.
• Prequalification Applications must be electronically submitted in accordance with the requirements of this RFQ by 17:00 Armenia Time, July 1st, 2020. Prequalification Applications must be packaged, labelled, and submitted in accordance with the requirements of the RFQ by 15:30 Armenia Time, July 24th, 2020.
• In case less than three Prequalification Applications are received, the second, RFP, stage of the tender will not be held.

Contact Details and Address of the Fund:

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund 29/1 Sayat-Nova, Yerevan, 0001, Republic of Armenia Director: Mr.Karen Asatryan Contact person: Ms. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan (Procurement Team Leader) Email: zaruhi.gharagyozyan@r2e2.am,  r2e2fund@gmail.com Web: www.r2e2.am Tel: (37410) 545-121, 588011

In the framework of “Innovative solutions for SDGs implementation in Armenia" project R2E2 Fund experts visited Gegharkunik region. The purpose of the visit was to monitor the works performed under the project. The Fund's specialists got acquainted with the quality of works completed by the companies installing solar systems and listened to the household’s concerns. About 355 water heaters and 8 PV panels were installed under the project.

In the framework of “Innovative solutions for SDGs implementation in Armenia" project R2E2 Fund experts visited Shirak region. The purpose of the visit was to monitor the work performed under the project and conduct a survey. The Fund's specialists got acquainted with the quality of works completed by the companies installing solar systems and listened to the concerns of the project beneficiaries. However, the households were satisfied with project outcomes. About 355 water heaters and 8 PV panels were installed under the project.

R2E2 fund is working on the preparation of the project “Energy Efficiency improvement in multi-apartment buildings”. In the scope of the project energy audit was conducted in multi-apartment buildings of Nor Nork and Davtashen administrative districts (one multi-apartment building for each district).

The following works were carried out:

• study of thermal-technical indicators of the buildings,
• development of ESMs for efficiency performance improvement and identification of investment amount required for the improvement,
• evaluation of thermal-technical indicators after the implementation of energy saving measures.

A working meeting was held at Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund with the President of «Washington Capital Global Finance, Inc.” Serge Gharibian and representatives of the delegation. During the meeting, the sides discussed investment opportunities in Armenia. President of the company Serge Gharibian together with R2E2 fund director Karen Asatryan discussed possibilities of cooperation in the framework of hydro, solar and wind power projects.

On February 4, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund hosted the representatives of the European Bank for reconstruction and development and the Consortium of International consultants to discuss the assistance prospects of the Investment project for the construction of 100-120 MW capacity solar power plants. Karen Asatryan, director of the R2E2 Fund, presented the investment project and emphasized the importance of the project implantation for the country in general. It was noted that the R2E2 Fund experts have already started selection and measurement of potential sites on their own. The work schedule and organization procedures were also discussed during the meeting.

Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Karen Asatryan and “Washington Capital Global Finance, INC.” company agent Serge Gharibian signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The Memorandum envisages a possibility of construction of geothermal power plant in the Republic of Armenia. The R2E2 fund will assist in identifying potential geothermal areas and assessing resources for geothermal energy projects.

Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Karen Asatryan and Director of “Armenian Leasing company UCO”CJSC Arsen Bazikyan signed a Memorandum on refinancing. Memorandum envisages implementing joint EE and RE projects, which will contribute to the development of the energy sector. R2E2 fund has expressed its readiness to refinance renewable energy and energy efficiency investment projects. “Armenian Leasing Company UCO” CJSC will provide funding to individuals, organizations, as well as state and community institutions within the framework of its partnership with the R2E2 fund.

A working discussion was held at Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund office with the participation of the heads of “Health PIU” state agency and Medical Centers. Representatives from the “Forensic Scientific-Practical Center”, the “Saint Gregory the Illuminator Medical Center” and the “Republican Narcological Center” were present at the meeting. The outcomes of the conducted energy audits and energy efficiency measures were discussed in the course of the meeting. Priority was given to the implementation of EE measures and identifying funding sources. R2E2 fund specialists once again expressed their readiness to provide professional support at the design and implementation stage.

On November 22, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund organized a workshop on the outcomes of the “Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Development Goals implementation in Armenia” project in Tsaghkadzor. The workshop discussed the works carried out in Shirak and Gegharkunik regions of Armenia, issues related to the amounts to be financed by the partner banks, results of the works performed by the companies installing solar systems, as well as procedures of financing to families having three or more children and residing in vulnerable communities, and a number of other issues.

A working meeting was held between the representatives of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the experts of the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the implementation perspectives of the Energy Efficiency project in multi-apartment buildings.

A working meeting was held between the representatives of the «SkyPower» corporation and the experts of the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. Representatives of the corporation presented their projects implemented in many countries and expressed their readiness to contribute to the development of solar energy in Armenia. Director of the R2E2 fund Karen Asatryan introduced the guests to the activities of the Fund and discussed the prospects for the development of solar energy in the country.

One of the main missions of the R2E2 fund is the energy efficiency of state and public buildings, in the framework of which energy audit of public buildings is currently conducted. Over the past three months, the Fund surveyed about 22 buildings. The R2E2 experts perform on-site and in-building measurements, data collection, assessment of boiler house and basic energy-consuming equipment, as well as energy cost analysis. The Energy Audit allows identifying possible ways to reduce energy consumption and to propose energy-saving measures that will reduce annual energy consumption in public buildings, as well as reduce CO2 emissions. The Fund is preparing an action plan for these buildings, to be followed by energy- saving measures. Being one of the responsible agencies of the sector development, the Fund applies only the best practice and technologies of the sector in its EE projects.

On August 28, a discussion was held with the representatives of the solar PV system installation companies within the framework of the "Innovative solutions for sustainable development goals/SDG/ implementation in Armenia" project. The project coordinator Norayr Harutyunyan presented the outcomes of the visits to Shirak and Gegharkunik regions. The project development and schedule, as well as collaboration with the partner banks were discussed with the representatives of the installation companies. The project envisages the installation of solar water heaters and solar PV systems for 400 households residing in non-gasified communities of Gegharkunik and Shirak regions.

A meeting was held in Shirak regional administration within the framework of the Innovative solutions for sustainable development goals in Armenia project on August 14. Chief of Staff of Shirak region Karen Badishyan, the relevant staff of the regional administration and community leaders were present at the discussion. Energy specialist of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Norayr  Haroutyunyan Asatryan presented the “Innovative Solutions for SDG Implementation in Armenia” project, which envisages installation of solar water heaters and PV panels for families having 3 or more children and residing in non-gasified communities of Gegharkunik region, providing them with soft loans through partner banks. The development and scheduling of the activities, as well as the procedures to be implemented with the banks within the project framework were discussed with the staff of the regional administration. Project coordinator Norayr Haroutyunyan answered the questions of the participants relating to the project.

A meeting was held in Gegharkunik regional administration within the framework of the "Innovative solutions for sustainable development goals in Armenia"  project on August 12. Deputy Governor Narek Grigoryan, the relevant staff of the regional administration and community leaders were present at the discussion. Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Karen Asatryan presented the “Innovative Solutions for SDG Implementation in Armenia” project, which envisages installation of solar water heaters and PV panels for families having 3 or more children and residing in non-gasified communities of Gegharkunik region, providing with soft loans through partner banks. The development and scheduling of the activities, as well as the procedures to be implemented with the banks within the project framework were discussed with the staff of the regional administration.

On August 5, within the framework of the "Innovative solutions for sustainable development goals/SDG/ in Armenia" project, a working discussion was held with the representatives of the installation companies. The project coordinator Norayr Harutyunyan presented the project, which envisages the installation of solar water heaters and PV panels for 400 households in non-gasified communities of Gegharkunik and Shirak regions. The project development and schedule, as well as collaboration with the partner banks, were discussed with representatives of the installation companies.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and National SDG Innovation Lab with the UNDP financing implements solar systems installation project in non-gasified communities in Armenia. The project envisages the installation of solar water heaters and PV systems for about 400 families in Gegharkunik and Shirak regions. The project will involve households from non-gasified communities of Gegharkunik and Shirak regions. ACBA Leasing CJSC and Global Credit Universal Credit Organization are accredited institutions to disburse credits under the project. Households residing in non-gasified communities and having 3 or more children will be financed for the installation of solar water heaters and photovoltaic panels (0% for 8 years). 100 households will be included in the project for the first year of project implementation. Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund will monitor the project implementation.

A working meeting took place in the R2E2 Fund with the representatives of "MASDAR" from the United Arab Emirates, Pierre-Louis Raust and Dr. Ibraheem Sultan Almansouri. Director of the R2E2 Fund Karen Asatryan welcomed the guests, presented the fund's activities, in particular, energy efficiency and solar projects. Investors were interested in making investments in the energy sector of Armenia. The prospects of further cooperation were discussed during the meeting.

A working meeting with representatives of GREEN PLANET FUTURE FORMERS CO from the Islamic Republic of Iran and specialists of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund was held on June 19. The head of Procurement group of the R2E2 Fund, Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the guests projects implemented by the Fund, in particular solar PV projects. Investors were interested in investing in solar energy sector in Armenia. The prospects of further cooperation were discussed during the meeting.

On June 16, a workshop ''Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Communities''  was held at COAF kids center in Vanadzor in the scope of the ''Together Brighter'' festival. Teachers from the COAF Center, representatives of local self-governing bodies, NGO representatives and more than hundred children studying in the Center took part at the workshop. Ashot Giloyan, Head of the Local Self-Government Policy Department at the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, Christ  Marukyan, director of COAF smart Center greeted the participants. The purpose of the event was to promote the use of energy efficient technologies in communities, increase public awareness among the population and discuss various EE projects implementation perspectives with the international organizations acting in the sector. R2E2 Fund experts delivered speeches, introduced activities of the Fund, perspectives of solar power development in Armenia, renewable energy envision through the eyes of children, as well as outcomes of implemented Energy Efficiency projects.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2) had organized “Together Brighter” festival in Vanadzor under the auspices of the RA Ministry of Territorial administration and infrastructure jointly with the Regional project “Regulatory Framework to Promote Energy Efficiency in the Countries of Eurasian Economic Union” and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Ashot Giloyan, head of the local self-government policy Department of the RA Ministry of Territorial administration and infrastructure, Lori Governor Andrei Ghukasyan, Mamikon Aslanyan, mayor of Vanadzor, Karen Asatryan, director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, as well as the sponsor of the festival, the representative of VEGA company welcomed the guests and the participants at the opening ceremony of the festival in Vanadzor. “Together Brighter” festival aims to inform, create and strengthen a knowledge about the need of energy efficiency and renewable energy among the population. Within the framework of ''Together Brighter'' festival, exhibitions with the participation of companies and organizations engaged in renewable energy and energy efficiency sector, experimentation, master classes, games and competitions will be held, as well as balloon flights and many other events. It should be noted that ''Together brighter” festival is the most popular EE event organized in Russian Federation annually since 2016, which was also successfully held in Kazakhstan in 2018.

Efficiency Project framework Upon completion of the EE project, R2E2 Fund experts made regular visits to public facilities where energy saving measures have been carried out. They had recently visited Kosh, Abovyan, Hrazdan and Sevan penitentiaries for monitoring implementation of the ESMs. The purpose of the monitoring is to study proper operation and maintenance of installed systems and works performed and assess the project effectiveness.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund specialists conduct a study of energy efficiency works implemented under the Subvention program 2019 in the communities of Armenia (street lighting systems and solar photovoltaic plants). The Fund specialists verify compliance of works performed to the required standards.

Armenia Renweble Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund organized a training course for the members of "Women in Climate and Energy (WiCE) NGO in the framework of the  Dialogue on Energy and Climate Change” project, on May 31. The purpose of the training was to introduce the participants of the training with the activities of the R2E2 Fund and key players in the energy market, installation specifications of solar water heaters and photovoltaic systems and thermal insulation materials. Welcoming the initiative, Karen Asatryan, Director of the R2E2 Fund presented the main goals of the Fund, its strategic directions, ccompleted and ongoing projects. Thematic reports and discussions presented by experts were accompanied by a film on Energy Efficiency. Participants also had the opportunity to get acquainted with the types of insulation materials in place and received answers to their questions.

Armenia R2E2 Fund implements community-based energy efficiency project. In the project framework 5 kW capacity solar photovoltaic system and 4 solar water heaters with 300 liter storage tank were installed at the sports school of Talin city to ensure hot water supply of the school. 10 kW capacity solar photovoltaic system was installed on the roof of kindergarten N3. As a result of energy saving measures implemented in Talin city, annual reduction of CO₂ emission is 16.7 tones, annual energy saving is 3200 kW/h, which amounts around 1.688.000 AMD.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund has organized the next training course on the correct formulation of solar system orders. The purpose of the course is to assist beneficiaries to avoid common errors, identify deficiencies frequently met during the installation of the system, prepare detailed Terms of References, and monitor tendering processes and performance of works. Representatives of the state administration, local self-government system and non-profit organizations took part in the training. R2E2 Fund director Karen Asatryan presented the purpose and importance of the training. During the training course, the Fund experts presented the main complications  encountered in the installation of solar systems, technical standards and technical specifications of the system, financial-economic estimations, common mistakes and their possible consequences, as well as problems relating to external lighting system.

In the scope of the “Energy efficiency improvement project” of non-gasified communities of Armenia implemented by Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency fund, a“Thermosiphon” type solar water heater with 300 liter storage tank was installed on the roof of Gandzak community kindergarten, which will ensure hot water supply of the kindergarten. As a result of system installation, annual reduction of CO₂ emission will be 1.4 ton, thermal energy output - 3200 kW/h, which amounts around 143.000 AMD.

One of functions of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy efficiency Fund is initiation and realization of various events aimed at formation and strengthening of public attitude towards the necessity of energy saving and renewable energy. Therefore, the R2E2 Fund is planning to carry out “Together Brighter” Festival in Vanadzor in June 2019, under the auspices of the Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of Armenia jointly with the regional project “Regulatory Framework to Promote Energy Efficiency in the Countries of Eurasian Economic Union” and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). A working discussion relating to execution of the “Together Brighter” Festival was held in the R2E2 Fund, in which the representatives from the various companies of the energy sector took part. Number of organizational issues, as well as possible participation of organizations representing the sector were discussed during the meeting. “Together Brighter” Festival aims to inform, create and strengthen knowledge about the need of energy efficiency and renewable energy sector in general among the population.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund organized a training course relating to correct formulation of orders of solar systems. The purpose of the training is to help the beneficiaries to cope with common mistakes, to identify shortcomings often encountered in the process of installation of solar systems, detailed preparation of the Terms of References, monitoring of tenders and works.

R2E2 Fund director Karen Asatryan presented the purpose and importance of the training. During the training, the Fund's experts presented the difficulties encountered during the installation of solar systems, technical syandatds, system specifications, financial and technical assessments, common mistakes and possible consequences, and ways of elimination of mistakes.

The Fund has also prepared a Guideline for the installation of solar systems.

Representatives of the delegation from Montenegro visited Nubarashen penitentiary in order to get acquainted with the works carried out within the framework of the Energy Efficiency Project. Modern energy-efficient condensing boilers, heat pump, solar water heating system were installed in the penitentiary. The next visit was to "Kanaker-Zeytun" medical center, where energy saving measures involve installation of modern boilers, thermal insulation of external walls, replacement of windows with new efficient windows, etc.

R2E2 Fund specialists met with representatives of the delegation from Montenegro, which was composed of Marco Rogalevich, Bilianna Maslak, Nikola Antolich and others. In the course of the meeting, the director of the Fund Karen Asatryan presented the activities of the Fund, in particular, the projects implemented by the Fund, such as: Energy Efficiency projects, “Masrik-1”solar PV project, EE improvement project in non-gasified communities of Armenia, Geothermal exploratory drilling project and others.

The purpose of the meeting was to present the colleagues from the Balkans with the innovative approaches and methods of the energy efficiency projects, which will enable them to apply the successful experience of Armenia in their countries.

Let's remind that the R2E2 Fund supports Balkan countries to implement the successful Energy Efficiency projects in their countries.

Specialists of the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund had a meeting with the representatives of the Green Climate Fund on April 3, 2019. The R2E2 fund director Karen Asatryan introduced the activities of the Fund, implemented projects and perspectives. Issues relating to the accreditation process and planned programs were discussed at the meeting. At present, R2E2 Fund is in the process of accreditation to the Green Climate Fund (GCF). The Fund has overcome the first stage of accreditation and there are all the opportunities that the Fund will overcome the second stage as well. The membership of such an organization will allow the Fund to participate in major investment programs. The accreditation process will be completed by the end of 2019. Green Climate Fund was set up by the 194 countries who are parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate change (UNFCCC) in 2010. GCF helps developing countries reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change.

Consultations on Masrik-1 investment project were held at Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund with the participation of financing institutions on March 27-28. Representatives of the Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the RA, Public Services Regulatory Commission, FRV and EBRD were also present at the meeting. The results of negotiations on the construction of the Mastik-1 solar plant were discussed.

As part of a study tour of the UN Development Program, uzbek experts, architects,designers, engineers, who are specialized in building’s energy efficiency improvements, visited Armenia. Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Karen Asatryan introduced the partners from Uzbekistan the activities of the Fund, Energy Efficiency projects, particularly, Energy Efficiency improvement project in non-gasified communities of Armenia. Within the framework of the visit, the experience of Armenia in the following areas will be presented to the uzbek partners: Design of energy efficient buildings, architectural solutions, development and application of legislative and regulatory documents on energy efficiency, urban zoning, production of insulation materials. The study visit was organized by the consulting company “Advanced Energy”.

At the invitation of the “Konrad Adenauer” Foundation, the Armenian delegation was in the Federal Republic of Germany from 18 to 22 of March. The delegation included the acting Minister of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the RA Garegin Baghramyan, members of Parliament Babken Tunyan, Hayk Konjoryan, Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Karen Asatryan and representatives of other organizations.

The purpose of the visit was to get acquainted with the renewable energy perspectives in the Federal Republic of Germany. It should be noted that the share of renewable energy in the future energy matrix of the country, according to their forecast  will reach 65% in 2030,  and 80% in 2050, at present generation capacity is about 40%.

In the framework of the reconnaissance visit organized by the KAS/ Konrad Adenauer Foundation, the representatives of the Armenian delegation had meetings with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to the Federal Republic of Germany Ashot Smbatyan,  members of German Bundestag,  representatives of  UNIDO/ United Nations Industrial Development Organization and North Rhine-Westphalia region ministry of Economic Affairs, Innovation, Digitalization and Energy.

During the meetings, number of issues relating to the prospects of renewable energy developments were discussed. Agreements have been reached to deepen cooperation, exchange information and get acquainted with the sector's regulations.

Within the framework of “Energy Efficiency Improvement Project of non-gasified Communities of Armenia”, a solar photovoltaic system with a capacity of 10.35kW has been installed on the roof of the community-owned Arts house in Gandzak. The system will function in a flow/net metering mode operating parallel to the network. For the efficient use of installed systems, the Community Administrative building, Arts house and outdoor artificial lighting systems have been connected to the same electric meter. Due to the aforementioned works, annual reduction of CO2 emissions will be 7.4 tons, annual electricity generation - 16560 kW/h, which will make 744.000 AMD per year.

Within the framework of “Energy Efficiency Improvement Project of non-gasified Communities of Armenia”, outside artificial lighting system reconstruction was carried out in Gandzak community. 60 pieces of 250W high pressure sodium (DNAT)lamps and 60 units of 85W compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) were used for outdoor lighting of the community. Within the project framework, 250W high pressure lamps have been replaced by 140W durable and high-quality LED lamps. At the same time, 21 pillars were restored and 600 square meter electrical wiring was done. Due to the aforementioned works, annual reduction of CO2 emissions will be 5 tons, energy efficiency - 44%, energy saving - 12045kW/h, which will make 541.000 drams per year.

On March 14, the first discussions of the coordination platform on the development of communities in Armenia launched at Ani Plaza Hotel in Yerevan. Representatives of the government agencies, international organizations, heads of communities and project experts took part in the meeting. Stanislav Toshkov, International Aid/ Cooperation Officer at the EU Delegation to Armenia, welcomed the guests and emphasized the importance of such programs in promoting the development of the country,  and the communities in particular. Stanislav Toskkov noticed that the “Covenant of Mayors” has stronger basis in Armenia, than in other EU countries. The role of the European Union is to contribute to the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors in the country. Issues related to Armenia's commitment to climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, outcomes of surveys on coordination platform actions and procedures, the community sustainable energy development perspectives, investment opportunities for community energy efficiency improvement projects, as well as efficient use of renewable resources were discussed during the meeting. It should be noted, that the European Neighborhood Policy Coordinator in Armenia is the Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of Armenia.

The first solar photovoltaic power plant opening ceremony took place in Azatan village of Shirak province. The project for installation of Solar Photovoltaic Power System in Azatan village was implemented by Eurasia Charity Public Organization with the support of the Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Armenia within the framework of Grant Assistance for Grasstoots Human Security Projects. Solar pv power plant will generate 100,000KW/h electricity and will reduce more than 30,000 kg carbon dioxide emissions per year, improving ecological situation in the region and the adjacent settlements and socio-economic condition of the residents of Azatan village. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Armenia Joon Yamada, Chairman of the Eurasia charitable organization Nver Torosyan, Head of Azatan community Vardan Ikililyan, Governor of Shirak region Tigran Petrosyan, Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Karen Asatryan and other officials took part in the ceremony.

Within the framework of “Energy efficiency improvement project in non-gasified communities in Armenia”, the streetlight refurbishment was implemented in Nor Yerznka community of Kotayk province.

The comprehensive restoration of the street lighting system includes transitioning the existing DRL 250W light bulbs with durable, high-quality 80W and 160W capacity Light Emitting Diode (LED) streetlights.

Due to the aforementioned works, the annual reduction of CO2 emissions is 20.4 tons, energy saving is 68% and 45 880 kW/h, which makes 2 000 000 drams per year.

Solar energy is the main and the most sustainable source of energy in the planet. Solar energy can be converted into electric and thermal energy. In case of conversion into thermal energy, its efficiency is about 70%, in case of electricity - about 20%. The new type of a solar system is a floating solar system that has a great potential today. Floating solar systems have the following advantages compared with the static/fixed solar systems:  Floating solar power installations are becoming more prevalent, especially in areas with high population density and require no land occupancy.  It converts additional 5-10% solar energy into electricity due to the cooling effect of the water on the modules. One of a technology disadvantage is:  The cost of floating solar plants is higher than traditional static solar plants, due to the cost of the floating structures that comprise about 50% of the project cost. Using a solar power helps protect the environment. Every household can contribute to an annual reduction in CO2 emissions of up to 2500 kg in average, which is one of the main causes of global warming. According to the opinion of experts, the rapid growth of floating solar power plants in the next 5-10 years will be recorded in Japan, China, Great Britain, India and Brazil.

A working meeting on “Energy efficiency improvement project of non-gasified communities of Armenia” took place at the Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. Representatives of contracting companies involved in installing solar systems were present at the discussion. The R2E2 Fund experts presented outcomes and shortages of the monitoring. An agreement was reached to eliminate all existing shortages and organize further work in accordance with current regulations. In order to eliminate shortcomings and organize the work properly, the engineering-technical group of the Fund has developed a Guideline for the installation of solar photovoltaic systems, solar water heaters and street lighting and internal lighting systems. Let’s remind, that since the beginning of the project, 2015 water heaters and 66 solar photovoltaic systems have been installed.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund specialists organized a meeting in Yeghnik community of Aragatsotn province, aimed at informing the local population with the investment project for the construction of utility-scale solar PV plant in the community site. During the meeting, solar PV plant construction possibility in the community and development perspectives were discussed. Then it was decided to meet again and discuss the details of the investment project.

Within the framework of “Energy Efficiency Improvement Project of non-gasified Communities of Armenia”, the specialists of R2E2 Fund visited Haykashen, Arax, Metsamor, Lernazard communities in Armavir province for the monitoring and evaluation of the quality of works performed. The purpose of regular visits is to get acquainted with the problems of the households on the site, as well as to monitor the activities implemented by the contractors. Around 2015 water heaters and 66 solar photovoltaic systems were installed in the project scope.

European Union supports the implementation of the “EU for Yerevan Solar Community” project implemented by the Yerevan Municipality. Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund together with the Scientific Research Institute of Energy as a Consortium, participates in the "EU for Yerevan Solar Community” Project. The objective of the project is to reduce the energy consumption and associated emissions of greenhouse gases annually through supporting application of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures in multi-apartment buildings of Yerevan. R2E2 Fund experts conduct energy audit of buildings, calculation and modeling of solar installations and new lighting systems. Within the frame of “EU for Yerevan Solar Community” project, the standards for the selection of multi-apartment buildings are developed and testing (approbation) is conducted. More than 300 visits are made and 50 multi-apartment buildings are selected during the first stage of the project. Energy audit is currently conducted for the selected buildings, technical specifications of the street lighting systems and internal lighting systems are calculated relevant to European standards. Calculation and modeling /simulation of the required capacity of the solar PV plant is carried out for each building. R2E2 Fund supports the Municipality of Yerevan in the preparation of the Terms of References and in organizing tenders. At least 90 multi-apartment buildings will be selected within the scope of “EU for Yerevan Solar Community” project.

On January 29, the meeting discussion in the framework of the “Masrik-1” solar pv plant construction program was held with the stakeholders and experts of the R2E2 fund. The representatives of the Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the RA, Public Services Regulatory Commission, Electric Networks of Armenia, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, FRV, IFC and EBRD took part at the meeting. Current issues concerning the construction of “Masrik-1” solar station were discussed during the meeting.

At the initiative of "Avag Solutions" Ltd ( a private consulting firm), a two-day workshop dedicated to the preparation and anticipated outcomes of "Masrik1” utility-scale solar PV project, was held in the R2E2 Fund conference hall on November 28-29. “Avag Solutions" Ltd is the R2E2 fund’s consultant, which supported in the completion of the tender for the construction of industrial scale “Masrik-1” solar photovoltaic plant".

Number of questions referring to the project evaluation, design and preparation, terms of licensing and tariff adjustment mechanisms, land acquisition, bid evaluation criteria, government support and the project management were discussed within the workshop framework.

Representatives of the Ministry of energy infrastructures and natural resources of the RA and the specialists of the R2E2 fund took part in the workshop.

The Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Karen Asatryan signed a Commitment Statement to join the "Covenant of Mayors in Armenia" funded by the European Union. The Commitment Statement emphasizes compliance with the principles of the Statement and provides support the sharing of knowledge and experience to Covenant signatories.

Local and regional authorities, representatives of NGOs and other organizations  are Covenant signatories, that are committed to  support “Covenant of Mayors” in their countries and assist the signatory cities in  the development, implementation and monitoring  of sustainable energy and climate change mitigation initiatives.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund is the first in the region to join the “Covenant of Mayors” initiative as an energy sector structure.

Currently, there are eleven “Covenant of Mayors” signatories  in six Eastern Partnership countries, including three from Armenia.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund  and British “Invest In Network”Ltd organized "Energy Week 2018" Investment Forum from 14 to 16 November. The Forum was held with the support of the Ministry of energy infrastructures and natural resources of the RA, under the auspices of the Government of the RA. The series of traditional Forum events organized by the Fund are aimed at introducing the latest developments in renewable energy sector, technological and engineering solutions and long-term projects investment opportunities in Armenia.

"Energy Week Armenia 2018" was attended by representatives from more than 15 countries being interested in the development of solar power stations in Armenia. Investors represent different countries: USA, Great Britain, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Austria, China, Lebanon, UAE, Russia, Kazakhstan.

Also participating was the first acting Deputy Prime Minister of the RA Tigran Avinyan, the acting Minister of energy infrastructures and natural resources Garegin Baghramyan, government officials, the World Bank Country Director Sylvie Bossoutrot, the IFC South Caucasus Regional Manager Jan van Bilsen, ambassadors, heads of international organizations, foreign investors, experts, private and public sector representatives.

 

On October 22, a session of the Board of Trustees of the Fund was held, which was chaired by the acting Minister of energy infrastructures and natural resources of Armenia Mr. Garegin Baghramyan. During the session Karen Asatryan was elected the director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund.

After the BOT meeting Garegin Baghramyan presented the new director to the staff of the Fund and emphasized that coordinated efforts will greatly contribute to the future undertakings and developments of the Fund.

Karen Asatryan noted that he is familiar with the energy sector, as well as the activities of the Fund and will make maximum effort for the development of the sector.

In the course of the meeting, the minister also touched upon the organizational problems of the “Energy Week Armenia -2018” investment forum, which will be held on November 14-16, and noted that it is necessary to work on a daily basis in order to attract investments and ensure implementation of forthcoming works properly.

It should be noted that during the "Energy Week Armenia - 2018" investment forum, several projects will be presented to investors, including five solar power plant packages.

http://www.minenergy.am/article/1422

 Today on July 18, 2018, an Agreement for Construction of Masrik-1 Solar Plant Agreement is signed with the consortium selected by Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (the R2E2 Fund).

The Government Support Agreement for “Design, Finance, Build, Own and Operate Masrik-1 solar photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant at municipality of Mets Masrik in the Gegharkunik Marz (Region) Armenia” is executed between the Government of the Republic of Armenia and FRV MASRIK  CJSC (as the Developer) and FOTOWATIO RENEWABLE VENTURES B.V,  –  FSL SOLAR S.L. (as the Sponsor), the Netherlands in the Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the Republic of Armenia.

To launch a Utility-Scale Solar Power Project (the Porject), a Grant Agreement was signed between the Republic of Armenia and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in 2015.

As a result of tender conducted by the R2E2 Fund under the Project, the lowest tariff was proposed by the Consortium comprised of the leading international companies: Fotowatio Renewable Ventures B.V, Netherlands (Lead Sponsor)- FSL Solar S.L., Spain (Anchor Sponsor). The proposed tariff is 0.0419 USD excluding VAT (about 20 AMD).

The final results indicate that the Solar PV development today in Armenia may compete successfully with other branches of the energy sector, has a higher weight in the energy balance of the country and may boost progress in energy security and independence of Armenia.

 

On May 14, the specialists of the R2E2 Fund visited Sarigyugh, Voskevan and Nerkin Tsaghkavan frontier villages of Tavush region in the framework of the "Bright Border" charity program with the support of the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Resources Fund and the UN Development Program (UNDP) financing.

The Initiative is under the auspices of the RA Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources.  672 households in three border villages are provided with 5 LED lamps, 3360 lamps in total.

LED lamps ensure 80-90% energy saving and have a 3 year warranty period.

The "Bright Border" is a voluntary-public Initiative, which aims to inform the population of the country about the possibility of economy through the use of affordable and energy efficient technologies (installation of LED lamps) in the border villages of Armenia and Artsakh.

In the result of the “Bright Border" Initiative launched in November, 2016, 4343 households of 22 frontier villages are provided with 5 LED lamps, about 21,715 in total.

The project is ongoing. Photos

A Grant Agreement was signed between the Republic of Armenia and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) in 2015, which established the launch of a Utility-Scale Solar Power Project.

Three years later, on March 27, 2018, the Project recorded important outcomes of extensive work carried out during those years. During the tender arranged for “Masrik-1” - 55 MW capacity solar PV plant, the Financial Proposals of the Pre-Qualified Companies were opened and the name of the investor that offered the lowest electricity tariff was announced. The lowest tariff was proposed by the Consortium comprised of the leading international companies: Fotowatio Renewable Ventures B.V, Netherlands (Lead Sponsor)- FSL Solar S.L., Spain (Anchor Sponsor).

The proposed tariff is 0.0419 USD excluding VAT (20.11 AMD). For comparison, the  current tariff for small hydropower plants on the natural flows/streams in Armenia is 23.8 AMD.

The final results indicate that the Solar PV development today in Armenia may compete successfully with other branches of the energy sector, has a higher weight in the energy balance of the country and may boost progress in energy security and independence of Armenia.

“Masrik-1” Solar PV plant is planned to be constructed in Mets Masrik community of Gegharkunik province, with the involvement of foreign investments. There are all the necessary preconditions for the construction of a modern powerful PV plant in the area selected for the plant. It will generate up to 120 million kW/h electricity annually. The expected investment amount is about $ 50 million.

The tender for “Masrik-1” Project was launched in the scope of the “Energy Week” held in Yerevan, in February 2017. More than 50 foreign companies took part in the traditional “Energy Week” event. The high interest of the investors was also confirmed at the pre-qualification stage of the Project. More than seventy companies from Europe, the United States, China, India, South Africa and other countries procured bids. Twenty companies submitted bids, ten of which passed the pre-qualification stage and were allowed to participate in the Tender and submit their tariffs.

It is worth to add, that the efforts of the Government of the RoA, the Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the RoA, the Public Services Regulatory Commission, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and its Consultants, as well as activities carried out directly with the World Bank support, included not only “Masrik-1” Utility-Scale Solar PV Project promotion, but also assessment of the solar potential of Armenia and elaboration of precise solar maps developed by the international advisory company, selection of six  sites for the construction of large solar plants with a total capacity of 120 MW, preparation of bidding documents required for the organization of the Tender for Investors, including implementation of feasibility studies.

 

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fundorganized a Charity Dinner on March 24, in order to continue led-lighting of frontier villages within the framework of the “Light Boarder” Project.

The participants of the Charity Evening were introduced  the priorities, importance and the goals of the project. The pathway and the activities  of the "Bright Border" Initiative were presented in brief during the Evening.

In the friendly ambience of the Evening,  current developments and acheivements in renewable energy and energy efficiency sector were discussed.

A Charity auction of handmade Art Collection provided by “Mane Tiles” of “Mane” Holding washeld within the framework of the Charity Dinner.

All the proceeds donated during the Charity Evening  and the Auction were spent to ensure  around 600 households from 3 more frontier villages with 3000 energy efficient LED-lamps, having 3-year warranty and compliance to high quality standards,  and partially alleviate their household burden.

The evening was accompanied by a trumpet and saxophone performances.

In the scope of the "Light Boarder" project, 19 frontier villages have already been provided with Led-lamps, and 3 more boarder villages will be Led-lighted  with UNDP support in the near future.

The charity dinner was well-organized, and gaveits results thanks to its supporters, namely, “Mane” Holding, Armas Wines, “Green Tech Systems” LLC, “Electrica Group” LLC, “Energy Efficiency Support Fund”, NGO "Misma" LLC, as well as all the active participants and entities, who made their invaluable contribution to the successful arrangement of the Charity Evening.

 

A pre-bid Conference for the 55 MW Masrik-1 solar photovoltaic project in Armenia organized by  the R2E2 Fund was held in Yerevan on 31 January, 2018.

Welcoming speeches at the opening ceremony of the Conference were made by the RA Vice Prime Minister, Minister of International Economic Integration and Reforms Mr. Vache Gabrielyan, World Bank Country Manager for Armenia Ms. Sylvie Bossoutrot, Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Mr. Hayk Harutyunyan, Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Mr. Armen Melkikyan.

The representatives of pre-qualified companies, transaction advisory organizations, Public Services Regulatory Commission, Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources, Electric Networks of Armenia, other companies representing energy sector of Armenia, international financial organizations, Armenian banks were invited to the Conference.

At the conference, the speakers presented project preparation works,  main procedures and schedule of the tender, key provisions of the agreements to be signed between the parties, mechanisms for mitigating possible social impacts of the project. Representatives of the pre-qualified organizations were given the opportunity to ask the participants of the conference questions and get clarifications.

Let’s remind, that “Masrik-1” project envisages construction of 46-55 MW installed capacity solar PV plant in Mets Masrik community of Gegharkunik province of the Republic of Armenia.  The tender has been announced for the design, financing, construction, ownership and operation of the station, the results of which will be summarized  in spring, 2018. The winner will be a company or consortium that will offer the lowest price.

Photos

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund jointly with ACBA-Credit Agricole Bank implements community energy efficiency project, the purpose of which is to increase the level of energy efficiency in the communities of the Republic of Armenia.

The first community energy efficiency project is implementing in Kasakgh community of Kotayk region, within the framework of which the following energy saving measures /ESMs/ have been implemented:

•  Improvement of external artificial lighting of the community
• Installation of solar photovoltaic systems in community buildings
• Installation of solar water heating systems in community buildings
• Installation of solar water heating systems for individual households

The above mentioned activities have been implemented in "Art Inventive School Studio" SNCO, "Arusyak" kindergarten, in the community administrative buildings, as well as on the roofs of around 15 households of the community.

The Community Energy Efficiency Project aims to reduce inefficient energy consumption and expand the use of clean, efficient, safe and affordable energy technologies.

The activities implemented will contribute to reduce the households’ monthly energy and water heating expenses and the amount they pay against consumed electricity, and subsequent reductions.

As a result of these activities, reduction of CO2 emissions will be 105 tons per year.

Today, on December 27, 2017, Armenia Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund is pleased to announce the launch of the issuance of the RFP of the MASRIK-1 Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Project in Armenia, SPP-M1/2018. The RFPs were issued to 10 short-listed international companies and consortiums, which have already passed the pre-qualification phase of the bidding process. The deadline of submission of the Bid is 70 days. The winner will be the company or consortium that will offer the lowest electricity tariff. The project envisages construction of a solar photovoltaic station with a capacity of up to 55 MW in the Mets Masrik community of Gegharkunik region of Armenia.

 https://www.e-gov.am/gov-decrees/item/29747/

On November 30 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund director Mr. Armen Melkikyan and General manager of Converse Bank Mr. Artur Hakobyan have signed an agreement of cooperation for the implementation of energy efficiency projects of community importance  and energy efficiency improvement projects in  non-gaificated communities of Armenia within the project framework. The objective of the project is to increase energy efficiency level in communities of Armenia and make investments in clean energy sector through financial institutions.

These projects will help to reduce non-efficient energy consumption and increase the use of clean, efficient, safe and affordable energy technologies.

On December 22, the shortest day of the year, the energy sector celebrates its professional day, the day of energy. Taking the opportunity, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund congratulates all the energy sector specialists on their professional holiday, wishing them safe and productive work in their difficult and  important work.

Thanks to your daily work, you provide people with light and warmth.

Energy sector is considered to be one of the most important branches of the country’s economy, where number of development and innovative projects of special importance are implemented. Once again, we congratulate all the energy sector specialists, wishing you productive work and new achievements.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and Converse Bank have signed an agreement of cooperation for the implementation of energy efficiency projects of community importance and energy efficiency performance improvement projects in non-gas connected communities of Armenia within the project framework.

The objective of the project is to increase energy efficiency performance level in the communities of Armenia and make investments in clean energy sector through financial institutions.

The R2E2 Fund experts, representatives of interested parties from Renewable Energy sector Companies and Converse Bank representatives took part at the meeting.

The participants of the meeting were informed about the project participation opportunities and reached an agreement on further cooperation.

EU4Energy and International Energy Charter had organized Energy high-level conference on unlocking energy efficiency potential in the residential and public buildings in Armenia.

The goal of the conference was to discuss energy efficiency and renewable energy related issues in Armenia with donors, international financial institutions, public and private sector representatives, as well as NGOs and experts.

Deputy Minister of Energy, Infrastructure and Natural Resources of Armenia Hayk Harutyunyan introduced the actions of the Government undertaken in energy efficiency sector, including improvement of legislative reforms and implementation of EE projects in public and residential buildings. The deputy minister also stated that more than 200 million euro is available in banks for the implementation of energy saving measures around the country. According to him, the demand for ESMs grows with geometric progression principle.

The representative of European Commission Lawrence Meredith highly assessed improvements made in energy sector of Armenia, and stated that cooperation in energy sector and efforts taken towards attracting investments is a very vital goal.

Issues   related to neutralization of investment risks in buildings, challenges and opportunities, green economy financing programs, EE crediting risks for housing, energy efficiency projects for communities were discussed during the roundtable.

The Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Armen Melkikyan spoke about the risks hindering energy efficiency and sustainable energy financing, presented  Energy Efficiency Projects for the communities aimed at increasing energy efficiency level in the communities of Armenia, actions of the Fund carried out  in energy efficiency sector and projects to be implemented in non-gasificated communities of the country.

The Head of the engineering- technical group of the R2E2 Fund Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan, spoke about the energy saving measures implemented in public facilities, presented the obstacles and prospects and deliverables.

A conference titled " Mitigating Investment Risks in the Energy Sector of Armenia", organized  by the European Union and the Energy Charter, launched at Hilton Hotel,  on November  7 of this year.  Representatives from the state authorities, international organizations and projects, financial organizations and experts were present at the conference.    The goal of the conference is to assist the Eastern Partnership countries to improve energy sector, energy security, create a favorable environment for investors, and promote energy efficiency and renewable energy use in the region.

The specialists of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan and Norayr Harutyunyan, held educational courses on Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the Global Bridge school on October 26. The objective of the training was to introduce the students of high school with energy efficiency sector, projects implemented by the R2E2 Fund within the Energy Efficiency Project framework, as well as detailed information on renewable energy in general. Analogous trainings will help to increase the awareness level on energy efficiency and renewable energy among the students. The Engineering-technical team leader Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan indicated that the courses will be continuous. Within the framework of this project it is envisaged to expand the number of educational institutions to be visited.          

According to the contract signed between Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Armenia, the last activities implemented under the Energy Efficiency Project, have been successfully completed in Armavir Penitentiary of the Ministry of Justice of the RA. The following activities have been carried out in accordance with the Energy Efficiency Project in "Armavir" Penitentiary of the Ministry of Justice of the RA.

• Solar water heaters with 1500 vacuum pipes have been installed for hot water supply, integrating with existing boiler house, is connected to hot water supply system;
• Solar PV  plant with a capacity of 100 kW has been constructed for the electricity needs of the penitentiary, which is connected to the ENA by a two-sided meter;
• External lighting of the blocking zone and surrounding area,  as well as internal lighting of the buildings have been replaced by energy efficient  LED-lamps;
• Penitentiary monitoring system has been connected to the central monitoring system.

As a result of energy saving measures, energy saving will be 36%, and annual reduction of carbon dioxide emission - about 277 tones. Annual saving of solar water heaters will be 174 150 kWh or 2,921,000 AMD per year; Annual saving of solar PV plant will be 150 000 kWh or 7 317 000 AMD per year; Annual saving of lighting will be 758,295 kWh or 36,998,630 AMD per year, Annual total savings will be: 1 082 445 kWh (758 295 light + 174 150 hot water + 150 000 solar plant) 47 227 630 AMD (36 989 630 light + 2 921 000 hot water + 7 317 000 solar plant)

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund invites banks and credit organizations acting in Armenia to cooperate in the framework of “Scaling-up Energy Efficiency project in non-gasificated communities in Armenia” aimed at increasing energy efficiency level in the country and investing in clean energy development sector. For more information, please contact: Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency  Fund. Tel: +374 10 58-80-11 Email: info@r2e2.am Address: 29/1, Sayat-Nova, Yerevan, 0001 Web site: www.r2e2.am  

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Director Armen Melkikyan and “Global Credit” UCO CJSC Director Louisa Igraryan signed a contract on the Scaling-up Energy Efficiency project in non-gasificated communities of Armenia, aimed at increasing energy efficiency level in about 280 communities of Armenia through financial organizations and financing investments in clean energy development sector.

About 37 thousand households, which are not included in the gasification projects, are not gasificated in Armenia, because of their economic inefficiency. In order to improve the living conditions of the population in communities, a working group headed by the  Minister of Energy Infrastructures  and Natural Resources Ashot Manukyan was formed by the Decision of the Prime Minister of the RA  Karen Karapetyan, with the participation of representatives from different agencies, and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. Targeted measures aimed at solving the problem have been developed for non-gasificated communities, based on which the signed contract will be implemented.

  Dear collegues,   We are pleased to inform you that Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2 FUND) has moved to Sayat-Nova str. 29/1.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, in cooperation with ACBA-Credit Agricole Bank, implements Community-Based Energy Efficiency Project aimed at increasing energy efficiency level in communities of Armenia and financing investments in the scope of clean energy development.

The first community-based energy efficiency project is carried out in the village of Kasakh, in Kotayk region. In the project framework the following energy saving measures are implemented: installation of solar photovoltaic systems, installation of solar water heaters on the roofs of about 70 households, as well as replacement of inefficient street lighting devices with LED lamps.

 

The Community-based Energy Efficiency Project aims to reduce inefficient energy consumption and improve the use of clean, efficient, safe and affordable energy technologies. The ESMs will contribute to the reduction of the level of energy used for electricity and heat water supply consumed monthly and expenses made against them by the households and subsequent improvements.

As a result of the above mentioned activities, reduction of CO2 emission will be 94 tons per year.

A conference to scale-up geothermal energy launched in Florence, Italy on September 11-12, organized by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The Deputy Minister of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the RA Hayk Harutyunyan and the Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Armen Melkikyan attended the Conference.

The conference aimed to discuss all the necessary actions to ensure sustainable development of geothermal energy sector, in particular to facilitate experience exchange between the parties, to provide technical assistance, advisory and capacity building activities.

During the conference a number of issues were discussed dedicated to sustainable development of geothermal energy. Deputy Minister Hayk Harutyunyan had a speech at the Ministerial Roundtable and introduced the Energy Sector of Armenia, in particular Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Investment Project implemented by the World Bank support and financing.

Deputy Minister of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the RA Hayk Harutyunyan and director of R2E2 Fund Armen Melkikyan had number of meetings with the representatives of the sector. A meeting was held with the director of "Enel" Carlo Pignoloni. “ENEL” is the largest and leading investment company in the geothermal energy sector in Italy. During the meeting, the Armenian delegation presented Armenia's renewable energy sector, intending to attract investments in Armenian market within the project framework.

A cooperation agreement was reached with the company, and the representatives of the company will visit Armenia to get acquainted with the "Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Project" in place. Another meeting was held with the president of "Arctic Cycle”, H. E. Olafur Grimsson, the former president of Iceland. Mr. Olafur Grimsson will visit Armenia to exchange his experience in support of the scaling- up the renewable energy sector in Armenia. Within the framework of the visit, the meeting was held with the Executive Director of the International Geothermal Association (IGA), Dr. Marit Brommer in the end of the meeting  the R2E2 Fund reached an agreement to collaborate with the Association .

In the course of the meeting with Mr. Adnan Z. Amin, IRENA Director-General,the latest developments in energy sector of Armenia were discussed, in particular, the “Utility scale solar PV project", the "Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Project" and the wind farm projects. As a result of the meeting, a decision was made to forward Armenia's accession process to the Global Geothermal Alliance.

 

On the second day of the conference, the participants visited the first-ever geothermal energy production plant in Larderello in Tuscany, built in 1913.

At the end of the conference, a memorandum was signed entitled: “Working Together to Promote Geothermal Energy towards a Sustainable Energy Future”.

The Executive Chairman of “RAM Energy Incorporation” Mr. Hezy Ram arrived Armenia from the United States of America within the framework of the “Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Project” in Karkar geothermal site of Syunik region, RA.

Within the framework of the visit, the Deputy Minister of Energy Infrastructures and Natural  Resources  Hayk Harutyunyan and the Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2), Armen Melkikyan had a meeting with the delegation. The Armenian side introduced the "Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Project", implemented activities, and discussed the opportunities of cooperation and prospects for making investments in Armenia.

With the assistance of R2E2 Fund specialists, Hezy Ram visited Karkar geothermal site in Syunik Region, where he conducted investigations at B1 and B2 wells with the Fund’s experts and measured the water temperature at Jermaghbyur geothermal site. As a result, the investor is expected to continue the studies at the site and select the investment format.

Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implements the following ESMs in Armavir Penitentiary in the framework of Energy Efficiency Project: renovation of internal and external artificial lighting, installation of solar water heating system and solar PV station.

The Contractor Company (Radinet LLC) is completing the installation of 100 kW solar photovoltaic station and 150 kW solar water heater systems.

The last generation micro-inverters of were applied in assembling of 100-kW solar photovoltaic station.

The latter enable online tracking of the station’s performance for each PV module, allowing to check the operation of the station online.

The  first meeting of the working group took place in Basen community of Shirak marz on August 5, 2017, aiming to improve the living conditions of the population and coordinate  the projects in the communities, having gasification problems in the regions of the Republic of Armenia, during which problems of the communities, particularly problems of Basen community were discussed.  

The meeting on "GAF Programme: Energy Efficiency for MSMEs" project funded by the KFW Development Bank was hosted by the R2E2 Fund on July 19, 2017. The Chief Executive Officer of the KFW Development Bank's East Asia and Caucasus Financial System Development Project Monica Gunder, Yerevan Office Project Coordinator Bella Andreasyan, Director of the German-Armenian Fund /GAF/ Gevorg Tumanyan, Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Armen Melkikyan and the R2E2 Fund engineering technical team leader Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan took part at the meeting.

The participants of the meeting expressed satisfaction on the project progress, in particular, it was noted that about 115 energy audits were performed by the Fund’s specialists within a year, only two of which were negative, and Partner financial institutions (PFIs) provided about Euro 5 million crediting  to MSMEs customers (out of Euro 20 million). It was mentioned that SME customers' are interested in the project progress and suppose that the project will be successful in future.

The parties also discussed possible cooperation between the KFW Development Bank, GAF and the R2E2 Fund in the scope of other projects.

Upon completion of the meeting, the participants visited the facilities financed within the project framework to evaluate the results  and to hear the customer feedback and recommendations in order to make necessary adjustments to the project implementation process.

14.07.2017   As a result of evaluation of Prequalification (PQ) applications based on the technical, financial and legal criteria specified in the Invitation to submit the PQ Applications for Masrik-1 Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Project in Armenia, the Evaluation Commission approved the following shortlisted 10 organizations/consortium that passed the prequalification stage and became eligible to participate in the second stage of bidding process:  

1	TBEA Xinjiang Sunoasis Co., Ltd, China  –Subsolar Energy Holding LLC, the Netherlands
2	Phelan Energy Group Limited, South Africa –Korea Electric Power Corporation
3	Shapoorji Pallonji Infrastructure Capital Company Private Limited, India – Risen Energy Co. Limited, China
4	Metka, Greece  – Energy Phoenix, Lebanon
5	Access Infra Central Asia Limited, U.A.E  – Eren Renewable Energy S.A., France – TSK Electronica, Spain
6	Fotowatio Renewable Ventures B.V, Netherlands –FSL Solar S.L., Country: Spain
7	Acciona Energia S.A.U., Spain
8	Building Energy Development Africa, Italy –H1 Holdings (Pty) Ltd, South Africa
9	Sky Power Global, Cayman  –Enerparc Projects GMBH, Germany
10	CountourGlobal LP, Cayman Islands

An event under the name "Energy Talks for Businesses" launched on July 7, 2017, organized by the European Business Association and the EU funded SMEDA project. Renewable energy sector reforms and projects, achievements and further developments were introduced during the event. The Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Mr. Armen  Melkikyan took part at the event. The Director of the R2E2 Fund introduced the Fund's activities, in particular, Energy Efficiency projects, Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Project, and construction of Utility-scale solar power plants project. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the European Business Association and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. The memorandum envisages implementation of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in Armenia, elaboration and introduction of public policies to renewable energy sector, as well as reduction of negative impact on the environment. Photos

Director of the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Armen Melkikyan took part at the Conference held in Belgium on June 29-30 of this year. Representatives of the Eastern Partnership countries, international organizations, donor countries, experts from commercial banks and representatives of international financial institutions took part at the Conference. The purpose of the Conference was to identify new mechanisms for alternative energy funding, present activities implemented in the sector, discuss further improvements, and expand “green” job retaining projects. Joint meetings were held with the representatives of the European Commission and the Climate Investment Fund, within the framework of the event, where R2E2 Fund director Armen Melkikyan, introduced renewable energy developments in Armenia, particularly energy efficiency activities carried out in the sector and forthcoming projects, which aroused great interest and an agreement was reached for further cooperation.

The specialists from Spanish company Effergy presented the outcomes of solar potential assessment and mapping activities in Armenia at the R2E2 Fund on June 27. The representatives from renewable energy companies, universities, hydrometric service and other interested organizations took part at the meeting. The R2E2 Fund Director Armen Melkikyan welcomed the guests, presented the accomplished works and noted that assessment and mapping of solar potential in Armenia provide more accurate data for the implementation of relevant projects, enabling interested companies to make investments in the sector. The Effergy specialists introduced in detail the solar potential assessment and mapping activities based on the local measurements and satellite data. These activities significantly increase accuracy of the solar potential assessment. The precise data of the solar potential are an important precondition for the sustainable development of energy sector in Armenia.   Solar resource assessment for PV applications in Armenia Ground-based data collection Production of Validated Solar Atlas Selection of Suitable Sites for PV development

The director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Mr. Armen Melkikyan and the director of "Technology and Science Dynamics" Mr. Vahan Shakaryan signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The memorandum envisages preparation, coordination, support and implementation of information technologies and innovative projects, aimed at the development of renewable resources and energy efficiency sector in Armenia. The director of the Fund expressed hope that future  cooperation between the two companies will contribute to the development of renewable energy sector, implementation of the latest technologies and innovative solutions, as well as  creation of appropriate systems and implementation of projects in the country.  

Prequalification Applications must be packaged, labelled, and submitted in accordance with the requirements of the RFQ by 15:30 Armenia Time, June 27, 2017. Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund 32 Proshyan Street, 1st Lane, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia Email: r2e2fund@gmail.com Web: www.r2e2.am Tel: (37410) 588011 Fax: (37410) 541732

Energy annual statistics meeting and sustainable energy policy forum was held in Astana in the framework of "Astana EXPO-2017" exhibition.  Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Armen Melkikyan took part at the meeting. The director of the Fund presented Energy Efficiency Project, the project activities and prospects, as well as ongoing construction of utility-scale solar power plant. The participants were attracted by the  projects implemented in Armenia and expressed interest studying the experience of Armenia to apply it in their countries in future.

The International Specialized Exhibition EXPO-2017 in Astana started its work on June 9, 2017 and will end on September 10, 2017. The main theme of EXPO-2017 is “Energy of the Future”.  Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2) has been appointed to be the national operator of “Astana EXPO 2017" exhibition by the decision  of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia. To ensure effective participation of the Republic of Armenia in exhibition, R2E2 Fund was supported by Armenia Development Fund, the construction of the pavilion was completed by "ExpoMedia" LLC. Embassy of the Republic of Armenia to Kazakhstan assisted greatly to R2E2 Fund. The pavilion of the RA at “Astana EXPO 2017" exhibition is focused on energy, culture and tourism. The recent achievements in energy system will be presented in the Armenian pavilion of “Astana EXPO 2017", such as construction of solar power plants, utility-scale geothermal exploratory drilling project, power sector legislative reforms, the latest developments in science and technology solutions in “clean energy" sector, as well as  private companies involved in the field of energy production. Series of films dedicated to tourism in Armenia will also be introduced during the exhibition, the visitors of the pavilion can see real pictures of Armenia's tourist attractions by VR (Virtual Reality) glasses. It is expected that representatives from 115 countries will participate in EXPO-2017, and more than 5 million people will visit the exhibition.    

President Serzh Sargsyan left for the Republic of Kazakhstan on a working visit to take part in the opening ceremony of Astana Expo-2017 international exhibition in Astana, which will be attended by 115 countries and 18 international organizations. Dedicated to alternative energy sources and green technologies and referred to as “Future Energy,” the exhibition will present the best energy saving technologies and the latest developments in the field of alternative energy.

WB Director of Strategy and Operations Mrs Mariam Sherman and WB Regional Director of South Caucuses Mrs Mercy M. Tembon visited National Archive of Armenia accompanied by the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund Director Mr Armen Melkikyan and the Head of technical group Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan. Director of NAA Mr A. Virabyan presented project deliverables, confirmed considerable level of implemented energy efficiency activities, increased level of comfort and significant improvement of maintenance conditions of archival documents. more

Dear colleagues,

We are pleased to inform that the Board of Trustees of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund has appointed Armen Melkikyan as a new Director of R2E2 Fund.

Appreciating the activities targeted at the sustainability of energy sector, we do believe that with joint efforts we will continue our contribution in promotion of Green Energy perspectives in Armenia.

The Embassy of the Czech Republic in Yerevan has organized a presentation seminar in the framework of an economic cooperation project on May 30, 2017. R2E2 Fund director Armen Melkikyan and the Fund experts Hrant Ter Gabrielyan and Ruben Gevorgyan took part in the seminar. The aim of the seminar was to present the interested parties to the professional technological solutions by Czech experts and companies in the solar, wind and hydro power sphere, as well as cogeneration in the processing of waste, and through direct negotiations present how to reach clean and efficient energy production solution in the sphere,  as well as discuss ways of financing of  future projects in Armenia. more

Traditional “Energy Week 2017″ Conference launched in Yerevan Traditional “Energy Week 2017″ series of Events launched in January 25-27, 2017,  which was organized by  Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and Expomedia  Centre of Exhibition Projects. The President of the RA Mr. Serzh Sargsyan, the World Bank Country Director Mrs. Laura Bailey, the Deputy Minister of Energy Infrastructure and Natural Resources Mr. Hayk Harutyunyan, representatives of international institutions, non-governmental and financial organizations, foreign investors, private and public sector representatives and experts took part in the opening ceremony of the event. These regular Events organized by the Fund were aimed at presenting the latest developments in energy efficiency and renewable energy sector, investment opportunities and possible sources of funding, technological and engineering solutions, perspectives and problems existing in the sector. The series of Events included a three-day exhibition, which represented local producers and professional companies working in the sector. It introduced insulating materials, energy efficient lighting and heating systems, solar technology schemes and services. The exhibition was attended by 28 specialized companies. Investors represent different countries, such as France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Holland, Switzerland, USA, United Arab Emirates, India, Iran, Lebanon, China, Russia, Ukraine and others. The first solar power station construction prospects in Masrik 1 site in Gegharkunik region, as well as the details of the tender were presented at the Conference. The anticipated capacity of the power station is 55 MW, although a station of about 95 MW capacity is possible to construct in the selected site. The Tender will allow to obtain the lowest price proposal through participation of eligible companies and investors. The participation of public officials and round-table discussions was not only confidence and guarantee for the investors, but also a good opportunity to provide clarifications on key issues in terms of legislation. The project introduced energy sector development vision and renewable energy enabling environment for the investments in Armenia. Enabling policies and stable  historical experience was introduced by local investors and banks, which was crucial to attracting foreign investments. The second day of the Event was devoted to the development of renewable energy in Armenia, several reports on investment climate, energy system, investors’ risk mitigation solutions and other issues in Armenia. The guests of the Event visited Armenia Cognac/Brandy factory during the break. The third day of the Event was focused on energy efficiency sector achievements and challenges, financing opportunities, mechanisms for energy efficiency investments, as well as the development of sustainable energy project in Syunik region, and number of other issues. The participants visited Merdzavan solar resource measuring station, which was installed and used by Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund for the assessment of reliable, accurate solar resource data collection. The results and achievements of the project, government reforms and incentives so far were introduced during the Event. Financing opportunities for community energy saving projects and SME energy efficiency projects were introduced by the international and local banks. Welcome Addresses- Mr. Serzh Sargsyan, The President of Armenia Mrs. Laura Bailey, Country Director, The World Bank Investers Agenda Photo Sustainable energy development in Armenia, Mr.H.Harutyunyan, Deputy Minister of Energy Infrastructure and Natural Resources Armenia Solar Power Project, Mr. Ruben Gevorgyan, R2E2 Fund Solar Resource Assessment in Armenia: preliminary results of ground based measurements, satellite and model validation, José Martínez Valenzuela Effergy/Irsolav  (Spain) Feasibility Study for Masrik 1 Investment Project Manuel Ladron De Cegama ÅF Aries Energía (Spain) Grid Connection Options at Masrik 1 site Manuel Ladron De CegamaÅF Aries Energía (Spain) Investment Climate in Armenia, Mr. K. Mkrtichyan, Director of Development Foundation of Armenia Armenia Investment Guide Legal Regulatory Structure of the Project, Government guarantees and incentives for Solar IPP, Abgar Budaghyan, R2E2 Fund Expert Energy efficiency as a pillar for national energy policy- A.Pasoyan Energy Sector Issues of the RA in the context of Paris Agreement under UN Framework Convention on Climate Change-Diana Harutyunyan Climate Change Program Coordinator, UNDP Armenia Sustainable energy developments in YEREVAN CITY- Tigran Sargsyan, Yerevan Municipality SME Energy Efficiency Project (IPC/R2E2 Fund), Gernot Kuhlisch, IPC (Germany) Small Hydro Power Plants (Success Stories and Challenges) Arevik Malyan, SHPP Association OSCE: Support for Syuniq Marz Sustainable Energy Projects Z. Gharagyozyan (R2E2 Fund) Technocom company presentations Bitlis Men, Ashot Minasyan Shtigen Arpi Solar Financing opportunities for renewable energy projects ACBA-CREDIT AGRICOLE BANK ԱԳԲԱ  Լիզինգ Ledify (Lusavor Sahman) Hayk Shekyan MINIMUM FUNCTIONAL SPECIFICATIONS – Masrik 1 FEASIBILITY STUDY – Masrik 1 MASRIK 1 – PLAN

The Conference under the name ”Energy Efficiency and International Cooperation” organized by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2) took place in Yerevan, Armenia, on December 7, 8. 2016. Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Yerevan office project manager Liana Marukyan, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scientific Associate Benjamin Fricke, the head of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Department of the Ministry of the Energy Infrastructure and Natural Resources of the RA Hayk Badalyan, Armenia R2E2 Fund Director Tamara Babayan, as well as related government agencies, international organizations and projects , and representatives of non-governmental organizations, experts and other stakeholders took part in the Conference. R2E2 Fund Director Tamara Babayan and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scientific Associate Benjamin Fricke welcomed the participants of the Conference. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy related issues, particularly EE promotion and International Cooperation in Armenia, Energy Efficiency Scale up in Municipalities, WB/GEF financed Energy Efficiency Project outcomes and lessons, the results of ESMs implemented in communities, energy security issues and sustainable energy development in Syunik region were discussed during the Conference. Second NEEAP /National EE Action Plan/, as well as reviews of implemented EE innovative measures implemented in Armenia were presented during the Conference.

The R2E2 Fund wishes you Happy New Year and Merry Christmas.

May peace, happiness and prosperity be  yours during this holiday season and throughout the new year.

With all good wishes,

Sincerely,

Tamara Babayan

04. 11. 2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented the following energy saving measures in Spitak city Municipality building under the Energy Efficiency Project: replacement of windows by energy efficient windows, roof insulation, construction assembling of internal heating system, boiler house and all necessary equipment, construction assembling of gas pipeline, replacement of doors by energy efficient doors, thermal insulation of under window niches. Due to energy efficiency measures energy saving is around 53 %.

31. 10. 2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund carried out the following energy saving measures under the Energy Efficiency Project: replacement of windows by energy efficient windows, insulation of external walls,partial replacement of windows by panels and insulated walls, replacement of exterior doors by energy-efficient doors, replacement of exterior doors by aluminum heat bridge energy efficient doors, replacement of exterior stained glass by energy efficient stained glass, filling exterior panel cracks, thermal insulation of heating network within unheated areas, replacement of lower-level heating system, installation and construction assembling of energy efficient boiler, circulation pumps and other equipment, construction of slanting roof of the building. Due to energy saving measures in the building energy savings makes nearly 67%.

04.11. 2016 Asian Development Bank celebrates its 50^th anniversary, as well as its 11^th anniversary of partnership with Armenia, and  has organized tree planting  in the park close to the “Red Hill” museum on November 4. Shane Rosenthal, the director of the Asian Development Bank, welcomed the guests and spoke about the role of the Bank in Armenia for the last 11 years, thanked for the close cooperation and the effectiveness of the implemented projects. The event was attended by the employees of the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, representatives from the Ministry of  Transport, Communications and Information Technology, Yerevan Municipality, Armenia Regional Development Agency, Armenia Water and Sewerage Company, “High Voltage Electric Networks” CJSC, “Power System Operator” CSC.

14.10.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund conducted Energy saving Measures in Vayk city Kindergarten N 3 in the framework of  Energy Efficiency Project: The objective of the project is to reduce electricity consumption in the building. The following energy saving measures has been conducted in the kindergarten:  replacement of  old windows by  new plastic ones, replacement of   ineffective doors and windows by energy efficient doors,  internal decoration of walls,  replacement of  doors and windows  by  insulated walls, thermal insulation of attic ceiling, partial renovation of water drainage system,   increase existing gas pipeline capacity, installation of natural gas boilers and connection to the gas pipeline, as well as construction assembling of internal heating system.  Due to energy saving measures energy saving is around 41 % in the building.

06.10. 2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Fund Efficiency Fund has implemented energy saving measures at Gavar Basic School No. 5 under the Energy Efficiency Project. The objective of the project is to reduce electricity consumption in the school. The following energy saving measures has been conducted at the school: replacement of old windows by new plastic ones, reconstruction of ineffective windows into walls, replacement of external doors by plastic doors, separation of heated areas with stained glass and internal decoration of walls. Due to energy saving measures energy saving is around 55.1% in the building. The Director of the School Satik Arzakanyan mentioned that student’s attendance increased after the implemented ESMs.

11.10.2016 The Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of RA on behalf of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund is implementing exploratory drilling at Karkar geothermal site of Syunik marz in the frame of Geothermal Exploratory Drilling Project with the support of the World Bank. Updated “Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report and Management Plan” document of the project is available here.

05.10. 2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund carried out street lighting activities in Vayk city within the framework of Energy Efficiency project. The following energy saving measures has been implemented under the project: replacement of street lighting DRL lamps with energy efficient lamps, replacement of missing pillars and outside lamps, painting of pillars, cabling works, wire laying. Due to energy saving measures saving is about 42 %.

29.09.2016 Renewable Energy workshop and Brokerage Event launched at Opera Suite Hotel on September 29^th, within the framework of the European Union Energy Days, organized by the European Union Delegation initiative with its partner institutions implementing EU-funded projects. The Event is supported by the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. A series of events is taking place highlighting contribution of EU-funded programs to energy security and promotion of alternative and sustainable energy solutions in Armenia for the benefit of the citizens of Armenia. Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Tamara Babayan welcomed the participants and noted that the goal of the project is to discuss main directions of EE/RES policy and whether they are in harmony with the European Union policy. European Union delegation member to Armenia Ludovic Ciechanowski greeted the guests and spoke about the EU policy and initiatives in the Eastern Partnership Region, as well as energy security and energy independence development trends in Armenia. The representative of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Badalyan presented the main directions of energy efficiency and renewable energy policy and the development perspectives. The representatives of state institutions, energy sector companies, universities and various stakeholder companies  took part at the conference.

16.09 2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented street lighting works in communities. In the scope of street lighting project, the following measures were conducted in Ijevan city:replacement of 400 W capacity mercury lamps with the same amount of sodium high-pressure lamps providing equivalent lighting, replacement of 250 W capacity incandescent filament lamps with sodium lamps, replacement of 40 W capacity incandescent filament decorative lamps with fluorescent lamps, replacement of old metering devices with dual-cost meters, installation of electronic timers, upgrade of lighting system parameters, installation of new street lighting uplighters, double-dyeing of pillars, 8600 meter power wire installation works. Thanks to energy-saving activities saving is around 40.3%.

08.09.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented the following energy-saving measures at Yerevan State Institute of Theater and Cinema in the framework of Energy Efficiency Project:boiler house refurbishment, replacement of boiler burners, pumps upgrade, and repair, thermal insulation, interior door replacement, partial reconstruction of internal heating system, installation of regulatory units, external network thermal insulation, replacement of windows with efficient ones, replacement of external doors with energy-efficient doors, internal decoration of walls. Thanks to conducted energy saving measures saving is approximately 60%. Vice Principal Hovik Minasyan expressed his appreciation for the works done.

22.09.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented the following energy saving measures at the National Library of Armenia in the framework of Energy Efficiency Project: replacement of windows with energy efficient windows, replacement of external doors with energy-efficient doors, installation of boiler and necessary equipment, construction of external thermal network and internal heating system, replacement of translucent surfaces with insulated walls, interior decoration of walls. Thanks to energy saving measures in the building saving is around 43.4%.

05.09.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Fund Efficiency Fund implemented energy saving measures at Yerevan Basic School N 163 under the Energy Efficiency Project. The objective of the project is to reduce electricity consumption in the school. The following energy efficiency measures has been conducted at the school:  replacement of  inefficient windows with new efficient windows, replacement of external doors with efficient doors, reconstruction of ineffective windows into walls, installation of heat convertors  behind the walls of heating radiators,  as well as partial insulation of external walls.  Due to energy saving measures in the building energy saving is around 45.7 %.

02.09.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund within the framework of Energy Efficiency Project in “High Voltage Electric Networks” CJSC Eastern Branch implemented the following energy saving measures:replacement of windows with energy efficient windows, roof insulation, construction assembling of internal thermal network, boiler and necessary equipment, assembling of gas pipeline and gas regulator –metering connection, replacement of doors with energy efficient doors. Thanks to energy saving measures energy saving achieves about 41.7%.

26.08.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund carried out street lighting activities in Akhurian city within the framework of Energy Efficiency project. The following energy saving measures has been implemented under the project: replacement of mercury vapor street lighting lamps with high pressure sodium lamps, replacement of DRL 250 lamps with 150 W sodium high-pressure lamps, replacement of 100 W incandescent decorative lamps with 30 W fluorescent lamps, regulation of management and control system, improvement of lighting network parameters, replacement of missing pillars and outside lamps, painting of pillars, cabling works. Due to energy saving measures savings are about 58%.

22.08.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented the following energy saving measures ar Ashtarak Medical Center in the framework of Energy Efficiency Project:  replacement of inefficient windows with energy efficient windows, thermal insulation of niches under the windows, replacement of  exterior doors  with energy-efficient doors, construction assembling of internal heating system, installation and assembling  of  boiler and  necessary devices,  external gas pipeline construction, as well as attic insulation. Thanks to energy-saving measures, energy saving is around 40.8%.

16.08.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented street lighting works in communities of Armenia under the Energy Efficiency Project.  The following energy saving measures has been implemented within Hrazdan  city street lighting project: replacement of mercury vapor 400 W and 250 W street lighting lamps with high pressure sodium lamps of the same quantity, providing equivalent lighting, regulation of management  and control system, improvement of lighting network electricity parameters, replacement of   missing pillars and outside lamps, painting  of pillars,  1200m long  cabling works, replacement of  5400m long old electric feeding wires  with new outside lamps, installation of lighting  systems  and pillars.  Due to energy saving measures savings are about 41.4%.

12.08.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented the following  measures at Nubarashen Psychiatric Center within the Energy Efficiency Project:  construction of medium pressure gas pipeline, building of boiler house, installation of  boilers  and auxiliary equipment, implementation of gas supply, water supply, water  sewerage,  electricity supply and ventilation works inside the boiler house,  commissioning and regulation of boilers and auxiliary equipment, connection of heating system to existing external heating network, replacement of inefficient windows with 3-chamber PVC glass envelopes, replacement of outside doors with aluminum heat bridge and doors, replacement  of windows and doors with insulated walls, ceiling insulation, decoration of interior  walls, assembling of new hot water distribution network. Thanks to ESMs energy saving constitutes 49.2%.

06.08.2016      Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Fund Efficiency Fund has implemented energy saving measures at Yerevan Secondary School N 187 under the Energy Efficiency Project. The objective of the project is to reduce electricity consumption in the school. The following energy efficiency measures has been conducted at the school: installation of heat convertors behind the walls of heating radiators, replacement of old windows with new plastic ones, reconstruction of ineffective windows into walls, replacement of external doors with efficient doors, separation of heated areas with doors, vitrines. Due to energy saving measures in the building energy saving is around.

03.08.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented street lighting activities in communities under the Energy Efficiency Project. The following energy saving measures has been implemented within the Kapan city street lighting project: replacement of mercury lamps with sodium high-pressure lamps of equivalent illumination in the same quantity, regulation of management and control systems, improvement of lighting network parameters, replacement of old feeding electric wires with new street lighting high pressure sodium lamps, installation of lighting systems and pillars, coloring of pillars. Due to energy saving measures savings are about 38.2%, and the number of lighted streets increased consequently.

26.07.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Fund Efficiency Fund has implemented energy saving measures at Yerevan Basic School N 61 after G. Atabekyan under the Energy Efficiency Project. The following energy saving measures has been conducted at the school: replacement of windows with energy efficient windows, thermal insulation of attic, replacement of external doors with plastic doors, replacement of external door with insulated wall. Due to energy saving measures in the building energy saving is around 59.1%.

22. 07. 2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund   implemented the following energy saving measures at Yerevan  State Sports College of  Olympic Reserve: replacement of inefficient windows with energy-efficient windows, replacement of exterior doors with energy-efficient doors, replacement of outdoor lamps with energy-efficient LED lights in the  yards. Due to energy saving measures  saving  is around 50%.

22.07.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Fund Efficiency has implemented energy saving measures in Basic School N 66 after A. Myasnikyan under the Energy Efficiency Project. The objective of the project is to reduce electricity consumption in the school. The following  energy efficiency measures has been performed in the school: replacement of heat convertors, replacement of old inefficient windows, partial reconstruction of  ineffective   windows with walls, replacement of external doors with energy efficient doors. Due to energy saving measures in the building energy saving is around 46.9 %. The Director of the School Zaruhi Ayvazyan stated that after the implementation of energy saving measures  the number of ill students’ has been reduced and number of students’ attendances has been increased in general.

07.07.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund has implemented the following energy saving measures in Artashat city municipality under the Energy Efficiency Project: replacement of windows with energy efficient windows, separation of heated areas from unheated areas, replacement of external doors with energy-efficient doors, construction assembling of internal heating system, boiler house and all the necessary equipment, construction of gas pipeline, assembling pressure regulation and metering system. Due to energy efficiency measures implemented in Artashat city municipality building energy saving is around 50%.

19.07 2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented street lighting activities in communities under the Energy Efficiency Project.  The following energy saving measures has been implemented within the Artik city street lighting project: replacement of mercury vapor street lighting lamps with high pressure sodium lamps providing equivalent lighting, regulation of management and control system, improvement of lighting network electricity  parameters.  Due to energy saving measures savings are about 41.4%.  The Mayor of Artik city  Arsen Abrahamyan expressed his satisfaction for the implemented ESMs.

28.06.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund has implemented the following energy saving measures in Vagharshapat  Hospital under the Energy Efficiency Project: replacement of external doors with energy-efficient doors, roof insulation, partial replacement of windows with  insulated walls, thermal insulation of under window slots,  gas pipeline and gas regulation works, assembling of  metering system, construction of external heating  network, construction assembling of internal heating system, reconstruction and retrofitting  of the  boiler house. Due to energy efficiency measures implemented in the building energy saving is around 48.1%.  The director of the Hospital  Vachagan Mkrtchian noticed that thanks to energy saving measures the average temperature is 24-25 degrees in the corridors and rooms, even in severe winter conditions.

24.06.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund implemented street lighting activities in communities under the Energy Efficiency Project.  The following energy saving measures has been implemented within the Dilijan city street lighting project: replacement of outdoor incandescent lamps with fluorescent lamps providing adequate lighting, replacement of mercury vapor street lighting lamps with high pressure sodium lamps providing equivalent lighting. Due to energy saving measures savings are about 45.2%, and the number of lighted streets increased consequently.

22.06.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund within the framework of Energy Efficiency project has implemented the following energy saving measures at the Institute of Physiology after  L.A.Orbely: replacement of windows with  energy efficient windows, partial replacement of translucent surfaces with  insulated walls, replacement  of exterior doors with energy efficient ones, thermal insulation of the first  building’s rooftop, replacement of boilers and pumps. Thanks to energy-saving measures, cost savings at the Institute of Physiology after L.A.Orbely is around 38%.

15.06.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Fund Efficiency Fund has implemented energy saving measures at Dilijan Basic School No. 2 under the Energy Efficiency Project. The objective of the project is to reduce electricity consumption in the school. The following energy efficiency measures has been conducted at the school: installation of heat convertors  behind the walls of heating radiators, replacement of  old windows with new plastic ones, reconstruction of ineffective windows into walls, replacement of external doors with plastic doors,  separation of heated areas  with doors, thermal insulation of the 1^st building attic roof.  Due to energy saving measures in the building energy saving is around 56.2%. The   Director of the School K. Khachatryan expressed his satisfaction for the implemented ESMs.

09.06.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund has implemented the following energy saving measures at the State Chamber Music Theater under the Energy Efficiency Project:  thermal insulation of inefficient walls,replacement of windows with energy efficient windows, replacement of exterior doors with energy efficient doors, installation of vitrine windows, roof insulation, replacement of lighting and stage color-lighting systems with LED lamps. Due to the mentioned energy efficiency measures implemented in the theatre energy saving constituted about 57.8%.  Director of the   State Chamber Musical Theatre Vardan Grigoryan expressed his appreciation for the works done.

13.06.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Fund Efficiency has implemented energy saving measures in Mets Masrik secondary school under the Energy Efficiency Project. The objective of the project is to reduce electricity consumption in the school. The following energy efficiency measures has been performed in the school: replacement of old windows with new plastic ones, reconstruction of ineffective windows into walls, replacement of external doors with aluminum doors, cleaning and regulation of the boiler. Due to energy saving measures in the building energy saving is around 52.7%. The   Director of the School Atom Hakobyan noted that after the implementation of energy saving measures the number of ill students’ has been reduced and number of students’ attendances has been increased in general.

28.04.2016 Energy efficiency measures were implemented in school N2 of city Masis, which resulted to: replacement of old windows by metal-plastic ones, partial replacement of windows by walls, replacement of external doors, installation of heat reflectors,insulating foils, cleaning of the boiler and adjustment and external plastering of decayed walls under the windows. The efficiency gained after the implementation of these measures were 52.3%.

06.05.2016 On May 4-5, 2016, R2E2 organized two day workshop on summarizing the results of Energy efficiency project. The participants of the workshop are the Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan, representatives of World Bank Jas Singh, Pedzi Mukambe, R2E2 director Tamara Babayan, as well as representatives of different construction companies, beneficiaries and representatives of consulting companies. On the first day discussions of the workshop the energy efficiency benefits were presented in details, particularly the medium and long term prospective of R2E2 development potential, the ongoing processes of EEP, the procurement procedures in the scope of EEP, the experience of applying new energy efficiency measures in the scope of the Project, the normative and regulatory documents of Energy efficiency, as well as the results of the social survey about the investments in EEP implemented by R2E2 and etc. The representatives of construction companies presented the implemented works, discussed the issues of their concerns and pointed the high professional potential of R2E2 staff and willingness to support the works to be organized properly. Several beneficiaries expressed their gratitude toward the energy efficiency measures implemented in their facilities.

22.04.2016 In the scope of Energy efficiency project the following measures were carried out in the school: replacement of old windows by new efficient metal-plastic ones, partial replacement of windows by walls, replacement of external doors by metal-plastic ones, internal finishing works of the walls, and insulation of the attic. Due to the implemented measures the efficiency rate in the school is 55.3%. Director of the school Aida Muradyan expressed her gratitude toward the implemented energy efficiency measures.

18.04.2016 In the scope of EEP, the following energy efficiency measures were implemented in Masis medical center: replacement of wooden windows by metal-plastic ones, replacement of external aluminum doors by metal-plastic ones, the odd windows were replaced by walls, insulation of the attic, construction of the boiler-room, renovation of hot water supply and heating systems. The implemented energy efficiency measures provided the 51% efficiency for the building. Director of Masis medical center Vardan Mesropyan mentioned that due to the implemented energy efficiency measures even during strong winter days, the average temperatures in hospital wards and corridors are 24-25 C.

04.04.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund along with the French company Effergy organized five-day workshop on “Design and construction of industrial scale solar PV system” from April 4-8. Consultants of Effergy company Raiko Parra and Isidoro Lillo welcomed the participants, expressing their hope, that this seminar will help to increase the knowledge of local experts in this field. The main purpose of the seminar is to increase the knowledge and skills of Armenian experts of professional institutions, which will contribute to the further construction of solar PV systems in Armenia. During the seminar the following topics have been presented: variety of solar PV systems, descriptions, preliminary design principles, standard calculations, case study of electrical system design, monitoring of PV stations, alarm systems, evaluation methods of energy production, environmental impact assessment, as well as issues related to operation and maintenance. The workshop brought together the representatives of government agencies, energy companies, universities, professors, students and other interested organizations and experts.

29.03.2016 A pre-bidding meeting was held in R2E2 for the following tender: Lot 1.     Implementation of energy efficiency measures in Armenian-Russian Slavonic University, EE-CW-52/2016 Representatives of different construction companies took part in the meeting. Reports were made by the R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan, EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan and RE and EE expert Armen Gharibyan. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/. RE and EE expert Armen Gharibyan talked about the installation of solar PV systems, air conditioning of the hall, interior and exterior lighting systems, as well as about the integration of monitoring system.

28.03.2016 Energy efficiency measures were implemented in school N2 of Vagharshapat in the scope of the EEP of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. The aim of the project was to reduce the energy consumption of the school. Thus the following works were carried out: replacement of non-efficient windows by efficient ones, replacement of non-efficient external doors by efficient ones, replacement of non-efficient windows by insulated walls, insulation of the attic, as well as installation of metal-plastic doors in the corridors. Thanks to this energy efficiency measures the energy efficiency rate is 52% now.

21.03.2016 In the result of energy efficiency measures implemented in Ararat school N4, the following works were carried out: replacement of wooden windows by metal-plastic ones, replacement of exterior aluminum doors by metal-plastic ones, partial replacement of windows by walls, as well as insulation of the walls.Due to the implemented measures the savings of the school is approximately 53%. The director of the school Nuritsa Panosyan mentioned that the school will return the invested money in 10 years and savings will be exclusively due to renovation works, which is quite possible. She also expressed her appreciation for the implemented works.

16.03.2016 On March 15, a pre-biding meeting was held in R2E2 Fund for the following tender: Lot 1. Implementation of energy efficiency measures in <<Kindergarten N12 of Hrazdan>> SNGO of Hrazdan Municipality. Representatives of construction companies, as well as the experts of the Fund took part in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting is to present the preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of EEM bid’s applications for the interested organizations. Reports were made by the R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan and EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/.

15.06.2016 In the scope of Energy Efficiency Project implemented by R2E2, the following works were carried out: replacement of wooden windows by metal-plastic ones, replacement of exterior doors by metal-plastic ones, insulation of walls and attic, renovation of heating system. Due to the implemented works the National Archives has 34.9% savings. According to director of NAA Amatuni Virabyan, the change is substantial. Before, the wind and dust, which are the main enemies of Archives, penetrated through the old windows. The reduced area of windows solved the question of both energy efficiency and document preservation.

14.03.2016 Students from NPUA faculty of Energy visited R2E2 Fund on March 14, 2016. The visit aimed to familiarize students with the activities of the Fund. EE Project consultant of R2E2 Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented the Energy efficiency Project, particularly the works carried out in public buildings. Students were interested in heating system and were introduced to the energy efficient materials and their parameters exhibited in showcases, as well as measuring equipment and their use. Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan also presented the perspectives of solar energy development In Armenia and also spoke about the areas for building solar power plants. He mentioned that similar meetings will be countinuous.

11.03.2016 In the scope of Energy efficiency project the following energy efficiency measures were implemented in ASUE: replacement of doors and windows, insulation of external heating network, insulation of the roofs of buildings, external insulation of the walls in 3rd building, as well as re-equipment of the boiler-rooms. In the result of energy efficiency measures. The result of this energy efficiency measures was the reduction of energy costs by approximately 46%. ASUE vice rector Mikhail Karapetyan noted, that the heating level was increased approximately up to 4 or 5 times and after implementation of energy efficiency measures the costs for energy is reduced. The boiler-room of the University was completely renovated, where two of the boilers are energy efficient and automated. All the buildings of the University were set to a saving mode.

11.03.2016 A pre-biding meeting was held in R2E2 Fund for the following tenders: Lot 1.   Implementation of energy efficiency measures in Procurement Support Center SNGO, EE-CW-53/2016-1 Lot 2.   Implementation of energy efficiency measures in Municipality of Spitak. Representatives of construction and design companies, as well as the experts of the Fund took part in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting is to present is to present the preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of EEM bid’s applications for the interested organizations. Reports were made by the R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan and EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/.

03.03.2016 A Workshop on assessment of solar potential and mapping was held on March 2, in Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund.  Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan, Director of Armenia R2E2 Fund Mrs. Tamara Babayan, as well as representatives of government agencies and educational institutions took part at the meeting. The Consultant from Spanish company  “Effergy” Louis Martin Pomarese introduced solar power development perspectives, implemented studies, features of mapping of climatic zones and solar potential in  Armenia, as well as resource   investigation results for the installation of  solar power stations and a number of other issues during the workshop.

01.03.2016 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund in cooperation with the Spanish company “Effergy” organized a four-day seminar entitled “Evaluation of solar potential and mapping” started from February 27 to March 1.The Consultants from “Effergy” Louis Martin Pomares and Diego Bermejo welcomed the participants and expressed hope that the seminar will promote to increase local experts knowledge in the field. Seminar aimed to strengthen capacity building in relevant specialized institutions, which will contribute greatly to the development of solar energy in Armenia through already trained specialists. Climatic Zones in Armenia and Solar Potential Mapping Features, as well as Classical Evaluation of Solar Radiation, Spectral Distribution of Solar Radiation, Interaction of Solar Radiation with the Atmosphere, Modeling of Solar Radiation from Satellite Images, PV Potential in Armenia and  number of other issues were discussed during the seminar.

24.02.2016 Presentation on preparation of Utility Scale Solar Power Project was held in the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources by the  Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund On February 23. Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural  Resources Hayk Harutyunyan, director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Tamara Babayan, representatives of state institutions, international organizations and projects, public and financial organizations,  and other stakeholders took part at the discussion.  Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan welcomed guests and introduced the  Utility-scale Solar Power project, in particular, presented the participants,  that  40-50MVt installed capacity solar PV power stations should   be built by  the private sector under the SREP program, spoke about the  development prospects, as well as the project financing  opportunities.  R2E2 Fund expert Armen Gabrielyan introduced the project, specified conditions   necessary for the construction of solar stations, main project preparation procedures, and evaluation of solar resource potential assessment, procurement and installation of solar radiation measuring stations. R2E2 Fund director  Tamara Babayan talked about the need to  form a working group and the topics be discussed within the working group, in particular site selection for the construction of solar power plants and measuring stations,  environmental and social, technical and technological problems, training and capacity building issues.

22.01.2016 The presentation of modernization of lighting system in Yerevan state puppet theatre was held on January 22, 2016. In the scope of Energy efficiency project, financed and implemented by R2E2, whole lighting system of the theatre was re-equipped by the modern LED lights and fixtures. The participants were the deputy Minister of RA. Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan, deputy Minister of RA Ministry of Culture Arthur Poghosyan, R2E2 stuff and journalists. The project aimed to re-equip the lighting system, thus reducing electricity consumption and simultaneously providing high level of comfort. Deputy Minister of RA Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan highly appreciated the importance of the Energy efficiency project, including all energy efficiency measures implemented in number of public buildings in the scope of EEP, aiming to increase the level of energy efficiency throughout the country. Deputy Minister of RA Ministry of Culture Arthur Poghosyan mentioned that in the scope of EEP energy efficiency measures were implemented also in other two cultural institutions like National Gallery of RA and State musical chamber theatre, at the same time expressing his hope that the project will be ongoing and will allow to involve more cultural institutions. Director of State puppet theater of Yerevan, Ruben Babayan enthusiastically introduced the implemented works carried out by “Dustr Margarita” LLC, and expressed his gratitude to the company representatives and to R2E2 director Tamara Babayan for fulfilling such project. He also mentioned the necessity of modernization of theatre’s lighting system, as it makes the whole theatre more beautiful and gives broad opportunities for creating better and brighter stage performances.

22.11.2015 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund congratulates all the power engineers on a professional holiday and wish them safe and productive work in their difficult and responsible position. You are the experts, whose daily work is to provide light and warmth for people. Modernization and development of energy sector for our country is of a great importance in terms of increasing the level of energy security and independence. Behind all these projects and activities are the devotees who are carrying out their work with dignity. Once again, we congratulate all power engineers wishing efficient work, successful achievements for the sake of our country.

ENES 2015 international forum to develop energy and energy efficiency sectors launched in Moscow on November 19-21, 2015. Director of R2E2 Tamara Babayan participated in the forum, in scope of which “REA” state federal budgeting agency of RF Ministry of Energy and R2E2 signed a memorandum of understanding in the field of energy efficiency. This MoU aims to promote cooperation between the parties through measures by increasing the energy efficiency with involvement of Armenian and Russian economic entities. more

04.11.2015 The R2E2 experts visited School N44 after Hrant Dink before the heating season, where a number of energy efficiency measures were implemented in the scope of the EE project. During the construction works the windows were changed, some of them were replaced by the insulated walls, the exterior doors of the school were changed and a number of heat reflectors were installed. Better conditions for classes are formed.

29.10. 2015 Interview of EcoLur with Tamara Babayan In a year Armenia will have solar map, which will bring its contribution and support to solar energy development in the country.  “For the preparation of the map, we will start the implementation of solar radiation monitoring and measurements in January and February. The final map will be ready in a year. The locations will be selected according to their higher potential of resources for electricity generation and stations will be built. This should also allow the preparation of certain business investment project and after having all the information, the investors can determine what stations, what tariffs and what investments to make”,-says director of Renewable resources and energy efficiency fund Tamara Babayan in her interview with Ecolur. According to her, the preliminary data of the best locations for solar energy development is in Gegharkunik, Syunik and Shirak regions. “The colder is the temperature, the better those stations run. The sun radiation is higher/stronger in a higher locations, where the air is clean and the lighting penetration is high. For example, the air is dusty/polluted in Yerevan, and that dust somehow troubles. If the air is polluted, the sunrays do not reach the surface fully. But the sun is not the issue in this case. The appropriate location, area and infrastructure should be provided”, – said Tamara Babayan. The development of the solar map will be implemented in the scope of the grant for 40 million USD within “Scaling up Renewable Energy” project of Climate Investment Fund. This money will be given to promote the development of solar energy: solar plants, solar water heaters and thermal pumps are expected to have up to 50MW capacity. It is also planned to develop geothermal energy in Armenia for the first time.

20.10.2015 On October 16, the discussions on effective solutions of issues related to the construction of industrial-scale solar power plants held in Khoren and Shoushanig Avedisian School and Community Centre. Participants were the Deputy Minister of RA Ministry of Energy and natural recourses Hayk Harutyunyan, Deputy Minister of RA Ministry of Territorial administration and emergency situations Artashes Bakhshyan, R2E2 director Tamara Babayan, as well as relevant government agencies, international organizations and projects, non-governmental and financial organizations, experts and other interested parties.The main speaker of the meeting was Dr. Peter Gevorkianwho is an American-Armenian international authority in the field of solar energy and is well known for the number of published books and for designs of the industrial-scale solar power plant projects.He presented the technological, legal and political issues and solutions of the industrial-scale solar PV stations in various countries, international experience and the possibilities of successful implementation of such projects in Armenia.

05.10.2015 Today on September 23, Armenia Marriott Hotel in Yerevan hosted a discussion meeting on two documents developed by the Energy efficiency project funded by the World Bank, particularly on 2^nd National Energy Efficiency Action Plan for Armenia and Market analysis and Operational plan of R2E2 for the upcoming years. The participants of the meeting were the Deputy Minister of Energy and natural resources of RA Hayk Harutyunyan, deputy minister of Territorial Administration and Emergencies Artashes Bakhshyan, representatives of the World Bank Jas Singh, Arthur Kochnakyan, Emil Zalinyan, director of R2E2 Tamara Babayan, director of Armenian branch of “Energy efficiency alliance”, team leader of “Econoler” Astghine Pasoyan, representatives of America Group, as well as relevant government agencies, international organizations and projects, representatives of public and financial organizations, experts and other interested parties. The deputy minister of Energy and natural resources of RA, Hayk Harutyunyan emphasizes the importance of the meetings and discussions, as well as highlighted the role of R2E2 in this field. R2E2 director Tamara Babayan made her welcoming speech representing the 2^nd National Energy Efficiency Action Plan for Armenia, its features, specifications, as well as market analysis and the upcoming Operational plan for R2E2 which is developed by Ameria CJSC. The aim of the meeting was to present those two important documents to the interested parties, receive opinions and suggestions for the purpose of their revision and submission for approval.

15.06.2015 June 15, 2015 a pre-biding meeting was held in R2E2 for the Implementation of the  Construction of access road, water supply infrastructure and the rig pad, GEDP-CW-1/2015, in Karkar geothermal area in the frames of Geothermal exploratory drilling project: Representatives of construction and design companies, as well as Fund’s experts took part in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting is to present the bid preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of energy efficient measures for the interested parties. Fund’s procurement specialist Arthur Grigoryan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. Environmental expert from R2E2, Hmayak Avagyan presented the detailed requirements for construction.

• Waste management
• Construction camp management
• Biodiversity Conservation
• Erosion control and soil conservation
• Protection of cultural resources
• Construction and operation of drilling fluid concentrator
• Water Supply Management
• Management of fuels and hazardous materials
• Road traffic management
• Health and safety of workers
• Emergency preparedness and response
• Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan
• Involuntary resettlement
• Involvement of local labor in construction working process

June 3, 2015 a pre-biding meeting was held in R2E2 in the frames of Energy Efficiency project for the following announced tender: Lot 1. Implementation of energy efficiency measures in “Sevan” penitentiary institution, EE-CW-43/2015-1 Representatives of construction and design companies, as well as Fund’s experts took part in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting is to present the bid preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of energy efficient measures for the interested parties. R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan and EE project consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan made their speeches and presentations during the meeting. Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan, EE expert from R2E2, presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/.

15.06.2015 On June 15, our Planet celebrates Global Wind Day. This exciting festival is organized by the European Wind Energy association and Global Wind Energy Council. The goal of the festival is to attract public attention to the enormous potential of the wind energy. According to experts the development of wind energy industry can solve a number of problems, particularly reducing huge amounts being invested in energy sphere annually. The authors of the Global Wind Day state that the main issue of the festival is the public awareness about the wind energy. People are practically being presented the ways of wind energy generation. On June 15 thousands of events are held in many countries all over the world, in frames of which excursions to the wind stations, meetings with industry professionals, lectures and workshops. Wind day in Europe was first celebrated in 2007.

29.04.2015 On April 29, 2015 a pre-biding meeting was held in R2E2 Fund within the framework of the Energy Efficiency Programme for the following tenders: Lot 1. EEM implementation in “Institute of Physical research” / EE-CW-48/2015. Representatives of construction and design companies, as well as the experts of the Fund took part in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting is to present is  the preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of EEM bid’s applications for the interested organizations. Reports were made by the R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan and EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/.

28.04.2015 The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of RA, on behalf of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and in the scope of “Scaling up Renewable Energy in low-income countries” project with the support of the World Bank, plans to implement Geothermal Exploratory Drilling at Karkar geothermal site of Syunik region. In order to proceed with the proposed Armenia Geothermal Project, Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report and Management Plan and Resettlement Policy Framework have been prepared.

28.04.2015 Armenia Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund was established on April 28, 2005 by the RA Government’s decision. Fund started its activity based on clearly enshrined working legislation and with professional and devoted staff. Today is the 10^th anniversary of R2E2. Fund truly follows its mission throughout this decade and continues to have a huge contribution and efforts in development of renewable energy and energy efficiency in Armenia. Due to the successful implementation of the projects from the very beginning, R2E2 gained recognition and trust from a number of public, private, as well as international advanced organizations receiving their support and establishing solid common grounds for cooperation. Being true to its mission R2E2 still brings its contribution using all the possible efforts to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency in Armenia.

13.04.2015 The ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of RA, on behalf of Armenia Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund, in the scope of the project “Scaling up the renewable energy in low-income countries” assisted by World Bank, plans to implement exploration drilling works in geothermal area of Qarqar in Syunik region. For the environmental impact assessment of the proposed activity, a public discussion/hearings, organized by R2E2 Fund, was held in the village municipality of Tsghuk on March 26 at 12 o’clock: Community members of Tghuk, Spandaryan and Sarnakunq villages and the representatives of R2E2 took part in the meeting.

26.03.2015 March 26, 2015, a pre-biding meeting held in R2E2 for the following announced tenders: Lot 1. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Vardashen” penitentiary institution, EE-CW-45/2015-1 Lot 2. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Erebuni” penitentiary institution, EE-CW-45/2015-2 Representatives of construction and design companies, as well as R2E2 Fund’s director Tamara Babayan took part in the meeting. During the meeting the representatives of construction and design companies were presented the efficient ways to organize their work in the application preparation phase by Tamara Babayan. R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan, EE project consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan and RE and EE expert Armen Gharibyan made their speeches and presentations during the meeting. R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons forthe rejected applications. Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan, EE expert from R2E2, presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/. Armen Gharibyan, RE and EE expert from R2E2, presented the types of the solar water heaters, the main schemes of those systems, the required specifications for the solar systems, calculation methods for the LED lights, outdoor lighting specifications, as well as the input of the central monitoring system.

19.03.2015 On March 14-15 by the initiative of Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of RA, the deputy minister Hayk Harutyunyan and the Ministry’s staff along with the experts of Armenian Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund held two-day workshop in the village of Yenoqavan of Tavush Region. During the visit, Mayor of the village, Yenoqavan Development Fund’s director and community representatives present the issues of the main school, kindergarten, community center and the social conditions of the villagers the possible solutions of which were discussed during the workshop. Divided into working groups, teams also discussed the potential and the feasibility of development of agriculture and rural tourism in the village. The main emphasize was to make Yenoqavan an “Eco Village”, which infrastructure will operate by the consumption of natural and renewable energy sources and energy efficient systems. In conclusion it was decided to sum up all the suggestions and the possible solution of the issues and after to put them into the further discussions.

23.02.2015 February 23, 2015 a pre-biding meeting held in R2E2 for the following announced tenders: Lot 1. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Hrazdan” penitentiary institution, EE-CW-42/2015-1 Lot 2. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Nubarashen” penitentiary institution, EE-CW-42/2015-2 Lot 1. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Yerevan State Puppet Theatre named after H. Tumanyan”, EE-CW-46/2015-1 Lot 2. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “National Gallery of Armenia”, EE-CW-46/2015-2 Lot 3. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Yerevan State Olympic Sport School”, EE-CW-46/2015-3 The representatives of penitentiary institutions Gevorg Nalbandyan, Varoujan Eghiazaryan, Asatur Asatryan, as well as representatives of different construction and design companies and experts from R2E2 took part in the meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to present the preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of EEM bid’s applications and specifications of penitentiary institutions for the interested construction and designing organizations. R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan, EE project consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan and RE and EE expert Armen Gharibyan made their speeches and presentations during the meeting.

20.02.2015 Dear Colleagues Inogate invite You to take part in the seminar “Analysis of Industrial Energy Audit for the bankable projects” which will be held on 24-27 of February,2015 in Yerevan in the Institute of Physics (2 A Brother Alikhanyan str.) within the framwork of the project “Technical Secretariat INOGATE” funded by EU. For pre-registration, please send an email to bsvahan@mail.ru, karat_312@yahoo.com till February 16,2015 “INOGATE Technical Secretariat & Integrated Programme in support of the Baku Initiative and the Eastern Partnership energy objectives” Project “Industrial Energy Audit Analysis for Bankable Projects” A Workshop for energy engineers, industrial and ESCO managers Date: 24-27 February, 2015 Venue: Institute of Physics, 2 А. Alikhanyan Brothers Str., Yerevan, Armenia A four-day Workshop entitled “Industrial Energy Audit Analysis for Bankable Projects” within the framework of the EU Funded “INOGATE Technical Secretariat” Project will be held in Yerevan on 24-27 February, 2015. The overall objective of this workshop is to improve access to finance for Sustainable Energy (SE) projects through capacity building and improved secondary legislation related to ESCOs in Armenia. Aiming to increase the capacity of local engineers and managers, the Certified Energy Audit and Sustainable Energy International experts will train specialists selected by the Association of ESCOs in using tools and methodologies to improve preparation of their project pipeline, as well as in optimisation of energy conservation measures, risk management and realistic analysis of SE projects through life cycle cost analysis. ITS expert team will teach the crucial parts of the process of how to prepare investment project fiches that can be submitted for financing and equip local engineers with adequate tools and methodologies to assess the financial and economic viability of SE projects on the base of best International practice. The ITS team will help participants to analyse both hypothetical energy conservation measures and their actual projects. The ITS experts will present with specific examples of Energy Saving measures the methodology of projects’ profitability calculations, as well as approaches to the assessment and attractiveness to bank financing. Special attention will be paid to the review and approval of the project by the bank and to the lending procedures. The participants will be provided an opportunity to develop a short project themselves, using specific example, to determine / calculate the profitability and present it to the rest of the participants and to the ITS experts. The participants of the workshop, within one month, will be consulted on the specific projects under their development at the moment. The best projects will be presented to the local and international banks during the second mission of the ITS experts, to attract funding. The workshop will be conducted by the Certified International experts in the field of Sustainable Energy, possessing extensive experience in the countries of Western and Eastern Europe. In this regard, you are welcome to nominate relevant candidates (engineers, managers) from your organisations whose participation at this workshop will efficiently contribute to their professional capacity development needs and to the objectives and goals of your organisation. Knowledge of computer spread sheet tools is desirable. Proficiency of the English language is not required, as simultaneous translation into Russian language will be provided during the workshop sessions. All the costs associated with the workshop are covered by the organisers. Certificates will be granted to those participants who attended and successfully participated in the entire four- days of the workshop. To apply, the potential participants should send a completed Participant’s Questionnaire (attached) to the following e-mail address: bsvahan@mail.ru; karat_312@yahoo.com, by 16 February 2015. The workshop detailed Agenda will be sent to the selected participants. For additional inquiries please send an e-mail to bsvahan@mail.ru; or call us at +374 91 401 388, +374 55 401 388 To learn more about the “INOGATE Technical Secretariat” Project, go to: http://www.inogate.org/projects/72?lang=en. Briefly about the Project The “INOGATE Technical Secretariat and Integrated Programme in support of the Baku Initiative and the Eastern Partnership energy objectives” Programme supports the INOGATE 11 Partner Countries in Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia in achieving a reduction in their dependency on fossil fuels and imports, improvement of the security of their energy supply and overall mitigation of climate change. As such, it aims to assist the countries in strengthening their capacity to develop and implement a sustainable energy policy, to help improve the business climate for energy efficiency and renewable energy investments, to support partner countries in improving energy economic planning through enhanced use and harmonisation of energy statistics in line with European standards, to enhance the convergence of gas and electricity markets on the basis of the EU internal energy market principles, and to increase the efficiency of the gas and electricity supply infrastructures. Specific Objectives • To ensure that assistance in support of the Baku Initiative/Eastern Partnership as well as the Energy Community objectives is more effective, coherent, sustainable and aligned with Partner Countries` objectives. • To assist the countries in strengthening energy institutional governance in relation to sustainable energy, in particular by focusing on institutional capacity. • Improved business climate for energy efficiency and renewable energy investments. • To support Partner Countries in improving energy economic planning through enhanced use and harmonisation of energy statistics in line with European standards. • To enhance convergence of Gas and Electricity Markets on the basis of the EU internal energy market principles. • To increase efficiency of the gas and electricity supply infrastructures.

12.02.2015 Deputy Minister of RA Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan and the director of Armenia Renewable Energy and EnergyEfficiency Fund Tamara Babayan visited the school N44 named after Hrant Dink and the school N61 named after G. Atabekyan to see the ongoing construction process on site. A number of energy efficiency measures are being implemented. The construction works within the framework of the EEP in the school N61 named after G. Atabekyan are almost over. The principal of the school Lusine Grigoryan on behalf of the school staff expressed a deep gratitude for the implemented works and presented a letter of gratitudeto R2E2 Fund’s director Tamara Babayan.

On Febrary 11, 2015 a pre-biding meeting was held in R2E2 Fund within the framework of the Energy Efficiency Programme for the following tenders: Lot 1. EEM implementation in “Sevan” penitentiary / EE-CW-43/2015-1 Lot 2. EEM implementation in “Vanadzor” penitentiary / EE-CW-43/2015-2 Lot 1. EEM implementation in “Artik” penitentiar / EE-CW-44/2015-1 Lot 2. EEM implementation in “Kosh” penitentiar / EE-CW-44/2015-2 Representatives of construction and design zompanies, as well as the experts of the Fund took part in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting is to present is to present the preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of EEM bid’s applications for the interested organizations. Reports were made by the R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan, EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan and RE and EE expert Armen Gharibyan. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. Armen Gharibyan, RE and EE expert from R2E2, presented the types of the solar water heaters, the main schemes of those systems, the required specifications for the solar systems, calculation methods for the LED lights, outdoor lighting specifications, as well as the input of the central monitoring system. EEP consultant Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/.

February 5, 2015 a pre-biding meeting held in R2E2 for the following announced tender: Lot 1. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Abovyan” penitentiary institution, EE-CW-41/2015-1 Lot 2. Implementation of Energy efficiency measures in “Prisoner’s hospital” penitentiary institution, EE-CW-41/2015-2 The representatives of different construction and design companies, Gevorg Nalbandyan from penitentiary institutions as well as the experts from R2E2 took part in the meeting.Aristakes Asmangulyan, construction engineer from R2E2, welcomed the participants and introduced the purpose of the meeting, which is to present the preparation, submission and evaluation procedures of EEM bid’s applications for the interested organizations. R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the biding package in details and highlighted the importance of the main points, qualification and contract requirements, as well as the reasons for the rejected applications. Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan, EE expert from R2E2, presented the thermo-technical indicators/regulatory documents, thermal calculations and financial indicators/.Armen Gharibyan, RE and EE expert from R2E2, presented the types of the solar water heaters, the main schemes of those systems, the required specifications for the solar systems, calculation methods for the LED lights, outdoor lighting specifications, as well as the input of the central monitoring system.

02.02.2015 On February 2, a pre-bidding meeting held in R2E2 for the following announced tender: Lot 1 Implementation of energy efficiency measures in “High Voltage Electrical Networks” CJSC eastern branch, EE-CW-37/2014: The representatives of construction companies and engineering organizations as well as the experts of R2E2 Fund took part in the meeting. The main purpose of the meeting was to inform the participants about the implementation of the bidding measurements in the scope of the project. R2E2 Fund’s procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan presented the bidding package in details and put an emphasize on the main provisions, qualification and contract requirements as well as reasons of the rejected applications. R2E2 EE specialist Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented thermo-technical indicators/ regulatory documents, thermal calculation and financial indicators of energy efficiency/.

01.01.2015 The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of RA, on behalf of Armenian Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and in the scope of the project “Scaling up Renewable Energy in low-income countries” with assistance of the World Bank, plans to implement the exploratory drilling works in the geothermal area Karkar of Syunik province. For this purpose the document of “Resettlement Policy Framework” has been developed. Resettlement Policy Framework

29.12.2014 Dear compatriots, I, on behalf of the staff of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, warmly congratulate you on the occasion of New Year and Christmas. I wish you be healthy, happy and greatly successful in your important work. May 2015 be a year of peace and success for our nation and republic. May this New Year be full of desired developments and victories in Your life. Tamara BabayanR2E2 Fund director

22.12.2014 Armenia Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund congratulates all the energy engineers with their professional holiday and wish them safety and productivity in their very responsible and hard work.  You are the experts, whose daily work is to provide warmth and light to people. The modernization and development of the Energy sector, the independence of energy security and its increased level has is of a great significance for our republic. Behind all these projects and activities are the devotees, who are carrying out their work with dignity. Once again we congratulate all the energy engineers wishing fruitful work and innovative successes for the benefits of our country.

16.12.2014 Armenia Renewable Energy Conference is continuing today. The Fund director Tamara Babayan and RE and EE expert Armen Gharibyan had speeches in the conference. Tamara Babayan introduced decision-making tools for the introduction of renewable energy projects for the precise economic and environmental analyzes.  Armen Gharibyanpresented investment possibilities in renewable energy sector of Armenia. The Conference participants discussed the issues related to renewable energy sector investment opportunities, industry and other branches of the sector, i.e environmental and social assessment problems of the geothermal energy projects, as well as characteristics for calculation of  solar technologies investments. The  participants expressed  hope that such initiatives will promote mutually beneficial cooperation between different agencies and organizations, which will enable to implement joint projects in Armenia for the efficient use  of renewable energy potential.

10.12.2014 A Conference was held on December 10 devoted to Renewable Energy sector of Armenia on the initiative of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and by the support of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and Konrad Adenauer Fund.Representatives of relevant state institutions, international organizations and projects, non-governmental and financial organizations, investors, experts and other interested parties took part in the conference.  The main goal of the event was to discuss with the sector’s representatives the latest achievements in the sector, perspectives, including legislative reforms, financial opportunities, technological innovations, to address the problems and the future projects for the sector’s development. Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan presented the current state of the power system and the policy held in renewable energy sector and underlined the vital role of renewable energy in the   energy independence of Armenia. He mentioned that certain actions and projects are required to implement to achieve the targets for a   long-term period.Hayk Harutyunyan also noted that renewable energy is one of the main priorities for the development of Armenia’s energy strategy, and number of strategic and legal documents are adopted to promote investments in the sector. According to the studies, Armenia has sufficient number of own renewable energy resources, which will allow to meet electricity demand up to 30 percent by 2025 (the latter does not include geothermal energy, the direct conversion of solar energy, biogas and wind energy potential).  Today, hydro resources are the most utilized from renewable energy resources.  In 2013 hydropower provides 29% of the annual electricity output. The Conference participants also discussed the issues related to renewable energy sector investment opportunities, industry and other branches of the sector, i.e environmental and social assessment problems of the geothermal energy projects, as well as characteristics for calculation of solar technologies investments. The  participants expressed  hope that such initiatives will promote mutually beneficial cooperation between different agencies and organizations, which will enable to implement joint projects in Armenia for the efficient use  of renewable energy potential.

04.12.2014 Project Initiation Agreement was signed today between Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and National gallery of Armenia in the framework of Energy Efficiency Project.

26.11.2014 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund specialists visited Yerevan State University of Theatre and Cinematography on November 26 of this year, where energy saving measures were implemented within the framework of the energy efficiency project. They met the head of the University Davit Muradyan and Hovik Minasyan and assessed the executed ESMs. In the result of the implemented energy saving measures heating expenses were reduced. Comfort level was increased due to the improvement of heating conditions at the University. The head of the University expressed his satisfaction with the successfully implemented activities.

19.11.2014 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund specialists visited Yerevan school N21 after A. Shirvanzade on November 19 of this year, where energy saving measures were implemented a year ago within the framework of the energy efficiency project. The Fund specialists and the school director Nelly Yeritsyan walked around the school to assess effectiveness of implemented energy saving measures.    The   School director, the staff and the students   expressed satisfaction to the Fund and Construction organization specialists with the successfully completed project and improvement of school conditions that will increase   the students comfort level, since the school’s heating problems are solved.

19.11.2014 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund specialists visited Masis School N2 on November 19 of this year, where energy saving measures were implemented a year ago within the framework of the energy efficiency project. The Fund specialists and the school director Arev Nazaryanwalked around the school to assess effectiveness of implemented energy saving measures and verify the  existing shortcomings.   The school director Arev Nazaryan expressed her satisfaction with improvement of school conditions.

19.11.2014 November 19 of this year, where energy saving measures were implemented a year ago within the framework of the energy efficiency project. The Fund specialists and the head of the hospital Aleksander Ghukasyan walked around the school to assess.

12.11.2014 Energy Efficiency Project agreement was signed between the Ministry of Justice and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund (R2E2 Fund)  at the Government House   on November 14.  Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Yervand Zakharyan, Minister of Justice Hovhannes Manukyan and other officials were present at the signing ceremony.  The agreement was signed by the Deputy Minister of Justice S. Krmoyan and Director of the Fund Tamara Babayan.

12.11.2014 Today Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Hayk Harutyunyan and director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Tamara Babayan visited Avedisian High School and Community Center. The visitors were introduced the special features of the new built school. This is the first school in Armenia that meets all environmental norms, and is disposed to get LEED certificate.  This school complies all certificate requirements, it is constructed using environmentally friendly materials.  The school building is equipped with modern equipment and laboratories necessary to provide high quality education, as well as tools and instruments necessary   for inclusive education. This educational institution with green roofs uses solar energy for the first time in Armenia, ensuring hot water supply, heating and cooling at the same time. During the visit Deputy Minister Hayk Harutyunyan expressed his gratification for the construction of such a school.

12.11.2014 A Conference was held today at the Government House organized by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund devoted to the problems of small hydropower plants, sector’s development prospects and perspectives. Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Yervand Zakharyan, Deputy Minister Hayk Harutyunyan, Ministry officials, director of the Fund Tamara Babayan, representatives from small hydro power plants, international and non-governmental organizations took part at the conference.  Yervand Zakharyan had an opening speech at the conference, greeted the participants, thanked them for the participation and for the interest expressed towards the energy sector.  He noted that Armenia’s experience in the sector’s   development is truly unprecedented, given the fact, that more than 150 privately owned SHPPs were built during the past decade.About 162 SHPPs with   277 MgW capacity are operating in the Republic by October 1, 2014.  According to the provided licenses, another 65 small hydropower plants with 131 MgW capacity are in the construction stage.  The pledge of these achievements is the promoting policies and enabling environment for the investments in the field, which was created by the participation of various stakeholders and by the support of international donor organizations. According to the minister, small hydropower plants sector may be surely considered functioning at present, but that does not mean that there are no concerns or problems in the sector regarding the maintenance of results obtained and further development, as well as    sustainability of the sector. Today’s conference is devoted to revealing existing problems and finding solutions to ensure sustainable development of the sector. Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Yervand Zakharyan   thanked the HPPs representatives for the efforts and investments made in the sector, and advised the participants to be active during the discussions.  Deputy Minister Hayk Harutyunyan, President of Association of SHPPs Naira Nahapetyan, head of the department of Development of the Ministry Hratsh Tsughunyan, head of RE Division of the Ministry Daniel Stepanian, director of Ecolur NGO Inga Zarafian and representatives of international organizations had speeches during the conference. Operation and development perspectives of SHPPs, legislative regulation improvements of technical problems, regulation of environmental issues and water usage efficiency, construction and renovation opportunities and international experience, and various problems were discussed during the conference.

02.09.2014 On August 29, a meeting was held with Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund employees and the geologists from Iceland. The geologists presented their achievements in thermal energy sector in their country and their rich experience opportunities to be applied in other countries. They discussed geothermal energy consumption and environmental impact issues and presented their latest research outcomes implemented at Karkar geothermal site.

21.08.2014 Pre-bid meeting took place at Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund on august 20, 2014 about the following on going tenders. Lot  1. Implementation of energy saving measures in Vasgarshapat  CJSC , EE-CW-32/2014-1 Lot 2. Implementation of energy saving measures  in Vagharshapat Special school N2, EE-CW-32/2014-2 Lot 3. Implementation of energy saving measures in Yerevan Main school N66, EE-CW-32/2014-3 Representatives from construction and design organizations, and R2E2 Fund specialists participate at the discussions. The objective of the meeting was to inform the participants about the the tenders and measures implementing under the project.   Procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan, energy engineer Hrant-Ter Gabrielyan, energy efficiency project ecologist Hmayak Avagyan had speeches at the meeting. The Fund procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozian introduced the bidding documents in details, emphasized the main provisions, qualification requirements, contract terms, and the bids rejection reasons. The Fund EE specialist Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan presented the street lighting energy efficiency technical indicators / regulatory documents, electric calculations, financial indices/.  Ecologist  Hmayak Avagyan underlined the scope of the Environmental Management Plan /EMP/ and the works implementing at the construction site.

12.08.2014 Pre-bid meeting took place at Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund on august 12, 2014 about the following on going tenders. Lot 1.Street lighting in Hrazdan city, EE-CW-29/2014-1 Lot 2. Street lighting in Kapan, EE-CW-29/2014-2 Lot 3.  Street lighting in  Artik, EE-CW-29/2014-3 Representatives from construction and design organizations, and R2E2 Fund specialists participate at the discussions. The objective of the meeting was to inform the participants about the the tenders and measures implementing under the project.   Procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan, energy efficiency project coordinator Segey Abrahamyan. The Fund procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozian introduced the bidding documents in details, emphasized the main provisions, qualification requirements, contract terms, and the bids rejection reasons.  The Fund EE  project coordinator Sergey Abrahamyan presented  the street lighting energy  efficiency technical indicators / regulatory documents, electric calculations, financial indices/.

15.07.2014 On July 15, a meeting was held with Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund director Tamara Babayan and the chairman of Armenia Municipal Association and its members. The chairman of the Municipal Association of Armenia welcomed the guests and stated that holding such meetings are a good opportunity to introduce renewable energy and energy efficiency sector in depth.Araik Hovhannisyan, the chairman of the Association noted that such meetings allow local self-governing bodies participate   in the projects implementing in energy and energy efficiency sectors.  Tamara Babayan, Director of the Fund, introduced thoroughly the Fund’s activities and particularly the importance of energy efficiency project implemented by the Fund, including activities implemented umder the project. Several questions were discussed during the meeting. Then the movie “Effective energy consumption formula” was showed, which described the Fund’s on-going activities and its further plans.

04.07.2014 Traditional “Energy Week 2014″ series of Events launched today, which was organized by the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and Expomedia  centre of exhibition projects .  Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Yervand  Zakharyan,  Deputy Ministers of Energy and Natural Resources Areg Galstyan,  Ara Simonian, Head of SHPP-s Assosiation Naira Nahapetyan, Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund  director Tamara Babayan, leaders and representatives of international institutions,representatives of non-governmental and financial organizations, investors, experts, other interested parties and guests took part in the opening ceremony of the event. The participants walked through the exhibition pavilions and were introduced to the activities of the organizations representing the sector.The first part of the two-day event was devoted to the latest developments in the energy efficiency sector, including legislative reforms, funding opportunities, technological innovations and near project perspectives.  ”Energy Week 2014″ Events include plenary sessions, round table discussions and press conferences. Benefits of  implementation of  energy  saving measures, the objective of National  Action plan  adoption on energy saving measures,   energy balance preparation, how  energy efficiency can help social organizations, poor families, communities, it’s impact on gas and electricity prices, long-term funding opportunities, information and awareness-raising measures, energy saving obstacles and challenges to involve  private sector, financial institutions and population, were  described in details during the first part of the Event.  Representatives of number of state and public organizations had speeches, presented their activities, shared with experience, proposed the ways of the sector’s regulation. Related discussions on energy saving technologies and construction sector were held during the meeting. The representatives of number of organizations represented   in their reports innovative technologies, heating systems, consumed  heat recovery technologies, efficient building envelope constructions, building insulation materials, thermal insulation technical solutions.

16.06.2014 The third Project Steering Committee Meeting of the countries under the Black Sea Basin Joint Operational Programme 2007-2013 for the development of Energy Efficiency Plan was held in Moldova, Cahul on June  12-13.The representatives of Armenia, Moldova, Greece, Romania and Turkey took part in the Meeting. The representatives of the partner countries had discussions for two days, discussions were held with state officials, municipality officials, representing energy efficiency sector, current obstacles hindering sector’s development, challenges, financing mechanisms, perspectives.The participants had speeches during the meeting. Number of questions on the project current activities were discussed during the meeting. Future work plan of the project was prepared and the Web site of the project was presented.

11.06.2014 A meeting with the R2E2 Fund staff and the representatives of “Inogate “project was held at the Fund’s office on June 4, 2014.Tamara Babayan, the Fund Director, Albertus Zviringe, “Inogate” Project Manager, Larry Good and other project representatives, the Fund specialists took part at the meeting.  Number of questions, including development of draft project design for the technical center construction, it’s equipping and maintenance, were discussed at the meeting.The parties agreed to submit initial project draft. The benefits of the center construction, its potential and future perspectives were also discussed at the meeting.

09.06.2014 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund restarts traditional event “Energy Week 2014” and kindly invites you to take part in a preferred activities in the framework of the event.  The activities are aimed to introduce and discuss last developments in Armenia renewable energy and energy efficiency are, including legislative improvements, financing opportunities, technological now-how, as well as projects with near future perspective. Discussions will be held with active participation of the representatives of the related public bodies, international organizations and projects, non-governmental organizations, financial institutions, investors, experts and other stakeholders. “Energy Week 2014” consists of plenary sessions, parallel round table discussions, as well as exhibition, where the Armenian energy market will be presented. The event will take place on July 2-3, 2014 in the Moscow House in Yerevan (Yerevan, 7, Argishti str.): The event is organized by “Expomedia” ltd. Taking into account the limited space, please confirm your participation by registration to the specific activities preferred: □ July 2-3, 2014 – Participation in Expo /pavilion, desk/ □ July2, 2014 – Participation to the energy efficiency discussions /speaker, hearer/ □ July 3, 2014 – Participation to the renewable energy discussions /speaker, hearer/ For registration and additional information please contact “Expomedia” Center of Exhibition Projects: Yerevan, 16, Abovyan str. Phone: +374 10 563899 Mobile: +374 91 420922; +374 93 777053 Email: expohouse@mail.ru

17.03.2014 Armenian Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund managerial staff visited the construction site of Avedisian High School in Yerevan to see the construction process of the building. Walking throughout the site as well as inside the building, the staff was presented the whole working process, format, details and innovations implementation of which is new to the existing local urban construction standards. The initial goal of this unique building construction in the region is to maintain all environmental standards providing high level of construction by using ecologically cleanbuilding materials and installing energy efficient systems. Implementation of all these staff will give an opportunity to receive an American LEED SILVER certification. Well-known in all over the world and high-ranked LEED certificate is a set of rating systems for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of the building, proving which the building receives a certificate for high quality standards. The part of these point are being implemented nowadays: flat roofs makes it possible to realize the idea of green roof, the use of solar water heaters and PVs significantly reduces the energy consumption of the building and of course there is a high quality HVAC system. We hope that this building will be the beginning of the similar project implementations and their logical development.

29.01.2014 Energy Efficiency contract was signed between Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and Armenia  State Engineering University to implement ESMs on  January 23, 2014, in the Conference hall of the University. Tamara Babayan , Director of the Fund  once again presented  Energy Efficiency project  implemented by the Fund. The rector of the  University  Mr. Ara Avetisyan,  vice-rectors , academic staff,  as well as specialists from the Fund were present at the meeting. Mrs. Tamara Babayan mentioned that after signing the contract with the State Engineering University of Armenia  the winner construction company will start  implementation of  ESMs.

10.12.2013 The second Meeting of the countries under the Black Sea Basin Joint Operational Programme 2007-2013 for the development of Energy Efficiency Plan was held in Yerevan, on December 9-10 . The representatives of Armenia, Ukraine, Moldova, Greece, Romania and Turkey took part in the Meeting. The meeting was organized by Armenia Renewable Recourses and Energy Efficiency Fund and American University of Armenia. Counterpart countries had discussions for two days, public discussions were held with state officials, foreign organizations, bank, and municipality officials, representing energy efficiency sector, current obstacles hindering sector’s development, challenges, financing mechanisms, perspectives. The participants had speeches during the meeting. Number of questions on the project current activities were discussed during the meeting. Future work plan of the project was prepared and the Web site of the project was presented.

28.12.2013 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund organized   painting competition “Energy efficiency in the student’s imagination”.  It is aimed to reveal the students’ awareness level about  renewable energy, energy efficiency and environmental issues. Students from the regions and Yerevan basic schools submitted 250 pictures. The Fund formed a committee consisted of the representatives of  the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources , the  relevant Department of the Municipality and the Fund  to select the best pictures. To summarize the results of a competition,   the Fund awarded  participating schools and  students that submitted the best pictures and  the winners received certificates and prizes.

03.12.2013 Letter of Cooperation between the Counterpart International and Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund The parties seek to promote and  the implementation of energy efficiency projects in  Civil Society and Local government Support (CSLGS ) Program partner communities aimed at reduction of consumption of electricity and heating energy in municipal facilities or municipality-owned buildings as well as providing advice and consultancy to CSLGS Program partner local governments on efficiently planning their budgets (both revenues and expenditures) for the year of signing the contract and forecasting for the out-years. the parties also agree to combineefforts and cooperate together in the CSLGS Program partner communities by actively raising awareness on the importance of implementation of energy efficiency measures.

03.09.2013 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy efficiency Fund is organizing painting competition on renewable energy, energy efficiency and environmental starting from September 1, 2013. The Fund aims to learn about the students’ awareness of renewable energy, energy efficiency and environmental issues. The competition is open to all main school students in Armenia. To participate in the competition, it is required to:

• Submit pictures  drawn by the student on the topic;
• The pictures should be drawn on paper / desirable in width /.

The works submitted to the Fund will specify the student’s name, age, grade, school and phone number. All the works will be shown at the Fund’s office; the best works will be placed in the Fund’s official website. The winner students will receive prizes. October 25 is deadline for the submission of works, the results will be announced on November 15,  the official results will be posted on the Fund’s official website. www.r2e2.am Send Pictures to the Fund by the following address: Yerevan -0019, Proshian 1 lane, house 32. For more information, call (010) 588011.

21.08.2013 Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund organized a workshop for the discussion of Preparation of Scaling-up Renewable Energy Program (SREP) Investment Plan for Armenia under the Climate Investment Fund, which was held on September 2, 2013. The Agenda of the workshop is attached below. The Project Consultant Denzel Hankinson represented analyses of energy sector’s current situation in Armenia. He  introduced energy sector of Armenia in details and planned electricity demand for the years 2013-2030.  The participants discussed the submitted information after the report. The representatives of the World Bank, organizations implementing foreign projects in Armenia, NGOs, representatives of the Government and Banks, private investors, scientists took part in the workshop.

21.08.2013 Contract of  “Energy saving measures implementation in Yerevan State University of Theatre and Cinema”  was signed between the Armenia R2E2 Fund and  “Gevorgyan and Nersisyan” LLC, under the  WB/GEF financed Energy Efficiency Project implemented by the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund in August 21, 2013. Tamara Babayan , the Fund director, Tigran Nersisyan, director of   “Gevorgyan and Nersisyan” LLC, the Fund specialists had a meeting with the head of the Yerevan State University of Theatre and Cinema Armen Mazmanyan. The above mentioned contract was signed during the meeting.

10.08.2013 The first Kick Off Meeting of the countries under the Black Sea Basin Joint Operational Programme 2007-2013 for the development of Energy Efficiency Plan was held in Samsun, Turkey on August 5-6. The representatives of Armenia, Bulgaria, Moldova, Greece and Turkey took part in the Kick Off Meeting. Armenia Renewable Recourses and Energy Efficiency Fund was represented by the   expert Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan. The participants had speeches during the meeting. Number of questions on the project future activities  were discussed during the meeting.  Certificates were awarded to the participants by the meeting organizers.

14.06.2013 Global Wind Day is a worldwide event that occurs annually on 15 June. It is a day for discovering wind, its power and the possibilities it holds to change our world.

31.05.2013 Climate Investment Fund organized a meeting for pilot countries   under the Scaling up Renewable Energy Project in Bandos Island, Maldives, in May 28-30. The R2E2 Fund director Mrs. Tamara Babayan took part in the meeting. The meeting of pilot countries is aimed to share the experience with the interested parties, reveal the perspectives and challenges, as well as the ways to overcome the obstacles. The meeting was essential for the successful implementation of the project. Mrs. Tamara Babayan had a speech during the meeting and introduced development perspectives of renewable energy and energy efficiency investments. more

24.05.2013 A lecture and drawing competition was organized   at Yerevan High school № 42 after T.Shevchenko on May 21 together with the Armenia R2E2 Fund, Ministry of Education and Science of Armenia and  “Assistance to Reforms” NGO, in which about 40 students from   4 to 8 grades of the school took part. The objective of the event, organized under the “Energy Efficiency Project” publicawareness campaign, is to disseminate knowledge on energy efficiency among the students, educate energy efficiency behavioral rules, introduce EE culture into household  and encourage application of energy efficiency. Lusine Harutyunyan  the member of the board of “Assistance to the Reforms” NGO made an opening speech, then  Karine Aleksanyan,  the Head of Preschool and Secondary Education of  the Department of Education of the Ministry of Education and Science of the RA and school director Eleonora Tumanyan welcomed and emphasized the importance to the event. The R2E2 Fund specialists  Tigran Sekoyan and Gayane Bakhchisarantseva, made presentatations, spoke about the  energy efficiency, the benefits of EE for each family and for the country in general,  explained how w EE  can reflect  positively on the comfort and on budget of the families.  After the lecture e Anushik Petrosyan,  Executive Director of “Assistance to the Reforms” NGO organized energy efficiency game  and drawing competition.  The winner received a certificate of the winner from the Fund in the end of the game, the other groups received Certificates for participation.

24.05.2013 A Discussion took place in R2E2 Fund about the World Bank financed Energy Efficiency Project in April 26.  The discussion was about the measures implemented in below mentioned facilities;

1. Implementation of Energy saving measures in “Yerevan State Institute of Theater and Cinema” SNGO, EE-CW-19/20132.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in   “National Archives of Armenia” SNGO, EE-CW-13/2013 3.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in   Yerevan School № 21 after Al.ShirvanzadehSNGO , EE-CW-15/2013 4.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in   “Main school in Ltchashen village” SNGO, EE-CW-6/2013 5.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in   “Main school № 5 in Gavar village” SNGO, EE-CW-5/2013 6.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in   “Vanadzor street lighting systems”, SNGO,  EE-CW-12/2013 7.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in   PEI (Preschool Education Institution)   № 3 in Vayk, NGO EE-CW-4/2013 8.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in “Vayk street lighting systems”, EE-CW-8/2013 9.    Implementation of Energy saving measures in    “Dilijan street lighting systems”, EE-CW-7/2013

Several construction and design organizations participated in the discussion. The objective of the discussion was to inform the participants about the tenders held under the project, as well as implemented measures, anticipated activities, and expected outcomes. Mrs.  Tamara Babayan, the Director of the Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund of Armenia greeted the participants and asked them to take part actively in the discussion. Zaruhi Gharagyozyan, the Procurement specialist, Roza Manucharyan,   Financial manager, Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan Energy Efficiency Expert and Hmayak Avagyan Energy Efficiency Environmental specialist had speeches during the discussion. The Procurement specialist Zaruhi Gharagyozyan represented  procurement procedure and tender  criteria. The Financial Manager o Roza Manucharyan represented the NPV (Net Presented Value) calculation formula, benefits and   payment conditions.  Roza Manucharyan emphasized energy efficiency calculation method in her speech. The EE expert Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan represented thermal-technical indicators of energy efficiency (regulatory documents, thermal calculation, feasibility indicators). Environmental specialist   Hmayak Avagyan underlined the importance of the Environmental management plan (EMP) and the works implemented in the  construction site.

23.04.2013 A Meeting with the heads of the educational institutions of Yerevan takes place in the National Institute of Education today. The meeting was organized together with the representatives of the Fund, Ministry of Education and Science of the RA and “Assistance to Reforms” NGO. The main goal of the meeting was to present Energy Efficiency Project in the educational institutions and introduce the project development perspectives.   Tamara Babayan , director of the R2E2 Fund, Manuk Mkrtchyan – Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Education and Science, Karine Aleksanyan-  head of the department of  elementary and secondary education of the Ministry and Ani Mkrtchyan project coordinator  of  “Tapan Eco-akumb” NGO  had greeting speeches during the meeating. Mrs. Tamara Babayan had a detailed speech and represented   the Fund’s activities; spoke about the projects implemented by the Fund, particularly EE project implemented by the Fund. The film “Renewable Energy” about the sector’s development and desired perspectives was shown during the meeting.

26.03.2013 Earth Hour is a worldwide event organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and held towards the end of March annually. Representatives of  the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of RA, Armenia Renewable Recourses and Energy Efficiency  Fund, Armenian branch of WWF, Ministry of Natural Protection of RA, Yerevan Municipality, Development Project of the  UNO, Global Environmental Fund, HSBC Bank of Armenia were  gathered  in  Best Western Congress Hotel to hold  Earth Hour  global action in Armenia,  to encourage households , businesses , communities and all interested parties   to turn off their  lights  for one   hour to protect our planet and to take  actions on climate changes. MRS. Tamara Babayan, Director of R2E2 Fund took part in press conference devoted to «Earth Hour” global campaign, held at Congress Hotel.

19.03.2013 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANING between  Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, NGO Eco-club “Tapan” and the Organization of Norges Naturvernforbund “Norweign Society for the Conservation of Nature” was signed. The objective for this Memorandum is to provide the sphere of collaboration and support cooperation between parties with common goals,excluding violation of their interests. The parties agree to cooperate in the following activities:1) Dissemination of information.

1. Exchange of information existing in official websites, printed and electronic materials in frames of spheres related to the energy efficiency issues in order to disseminate it within relevant audience, including public institutions, non-governmental organizations and the public.

2) Environmental education and upbringing.

1. Improvement and Development of the textbook (the textbook of project’s subject “Application of energy and resources”) and teaching materials. Exchange of professional consultations and skills in order to develop and to improve the teaching materials of Subject.
2. Coordinated  using of organizational capacities, connections and the effects in order to disseminate  the teaching of the Subject in public schools of RA.
3. Co financing of necessary funds for organization of exhibitions, seminars and other actions, flash mobs organizing by the pupils of the public schools during annual events of “The International Day Of Energy Saving- November 11″.
4. Implementation of the annual international competition announced for teachers and pupils of republic schools. Participation in the works of republican phase’s jury of the competition, co financing for getting awards given to the winners of  republican phase, organization of award giving ceremony.
5. Organization of open lessons in  the energetic structures of RA, manufacturing facilities of energy efficiency products and renewable energy sites.

05.03.2013 In the scope of WB/ GEF Energy Efficiency Project implemented by the Armenia Renewable Recourses and Energy Efficiency Fund “Implementation of Energy Efficiency Measures in Ararat  School N4” Contract was signed between R2E2 Fund and “Sarkoghi” LLC. R2E2 Fund director Mrs. Tamara Babayan, members of staff and director of “Sarkoghi” LLC Mr. Razmik Sargsyan visited Ararat school N4 and met the director of the school Nuritsa Panosyan.

On 05 July 2012, Mrs. Tamara Babayan , the R2E2 Fund Director,  Mr. Armen Movsisyan, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, together with a delegation of 18 persons took part to Day of Armenia in the Energy Community in Vienna . The Day of Armenia was organized in co-operation with INOGATE. Recalling Armenia’s Observer status since October 2011, the event provided forum for stock taking on the energy sector of Armenia, including its institutional structure, companies, and legislation and development perspectives. Mr. Slavtcho Neykov, Director of the Energy Community Secretariat and Mr. Armen Movsisyan, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources had an opening speech and greeted the participants of the meeting.  Mr. Areg Galstyan Deputy minister of Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Mrs. Tamara Babayan, the R2E2 Fund Director, Mr. Arthur Vardanyan,  representative of PSRC of Armenia, Mr. Hrant  Tadevosyan, from  ArmRusGasArs CJSC, Mr. Yevgeni Bibin, Director of Electrical Networks of Armenia had speeches during the meeting and presented  strategy  for the development of the energy sector and enabling investments in the area.  Armenia adopted its Energy Sector Development Strategy in 2005.  The Secretariat praised the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and other regulating organizations and invited to present their work at the next Energy Efficiency Task Force meeting. As a sum up, it was agreed that the Armenian authorities, the Secretariat and INOGATE should work together and considers ways to further development of the regional co-operation. Mr. Slavtcho thanked the Armenian authorities for the active participation at the meetings and excellent communications.  He noted that the meetings will be continuous and will be valuable between Armenia and the Energy Community stakeholders.

Today Director of  Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund of Armenia Tamara Babayan,  Coordinator of  implementation and monitoring and the World Bank’s representative  Arthur Kochnakyan met with Mayor Taron Margaryan. During the meeting discussed were issues related to energy efficiency programs.

18.04.2012 Director of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund of Armenia Tamara Babayan had an official visit to Vienna to meet with the Energy Community Secretariat  S. Neykovi. Here we present the article published of the secretariat web site.

17 Apr 2012     Secretariat talks with the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund

Today, 17. April 2012, Ms. Tamara Babayan, Director of Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund paid a visit at the Energy Community Secretariat. Established via a World Bank loan in early 2006, the Fund enjoys good reputation beyond its borders. The aim of the visit was to exchange information and to consider possibilities for future cooperation between Armenia and the Energy Community stakeholders on the ground of the available best practice.

The Armenian government passed the World Bank credit to the Fund, enabling it to lend 9,2 million US$ on renewable energy and energy efficiency projects during the first 4 years. With the support of the EBRD, 5 million US$ were earmarked for the financing of 27 small (up to 10 MW) hydro power plants. The rest was allocated for the support of diverse energy efficiency measures in the heating sector.

The Fund now has a new initiative on public buildings energy efficiency. As a rule, the Fund grants soft loans. It offers interest rates well below the market level, maturity conditions of 7 to 8 years and favourable grace periods during the construction period.

The Fund was established by a government degree. It employees 17 persons. The fact that the Fund was already established in 2006 reflects the importance of renewable energy and energy efficiency in the Armenian energy mix. In contrast to its neighbouring countries, Armenia lacks indigenous fuel resources.

Whilst acknowledging that her country has a “very good agreement”, Ms. Babayan was particularly interested in hearing about the existing heating energy efficiency measures in the Energy Community. Also, the mandates of the Task Forces on energy efficiency and renewable energy were debated. Mr. Slavtcho Neykov, Director of the Secretariat, paid special tribute to Armenia’s efforts to support green energy. Whilst noting that currently there is no legal obligation, he urged Armenia to continue to prepare for the implementation of the Treaty. Mr. Neykov sees today’s visit as one of the preparatory steps for the Day of Armenia in the Energy Community, scheduled for 5 July 2012. Official site

 We are informing to the administration of general education, special, musical schools, colleges, kindergartens, hospitals, polyclinics, administrative and other buildings. At present the Fund is developing energy efficiency project for public buildings. In order to be included in this project you are kindly requested to provide relevant information according to the submitted inquiry form. It will give us opportunity to make initial evaluation of energy efficiency characteristics of the buildings and make decision on institutions in need of assistance in terms of energy efficiency. The organizations can directly apply to the Fund for more details.

Brief Description of Energy Efficiency Project Carried out by Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund

Since 2012 the Government of the Republic of Armenia with the assistance /support/of the World Bank has set about implementing the energy efficiency project of facilities of public importance (schools, other educational institutions, administrative buildings, cultural houses, exterior /street/ lighting of settltments and etc). The aim of the Project is to reduce the energy expenses of exterior lighting of settltments and buildings of the public facilities.

The heat insulation of the building outwalls with thermal insulation materials, replacement of external doors and windows by more modern ones, their repairing, heat insulation of roofs and basements, construction of gas consuming new boiler houses and heating systems, modernization of the old ones, their adjustment, modernization of the existing exterior lighting network of the settlements,  replacement of old lights by more economical ones and etc  are included in energy efficiency activities.

The Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund will conclude Energy services rendering /providing/ agreements with beneficiaries and will grant credits (in the form of financing of energy efficiency activities) from the state budget with independent income sources (e.g. communal administrative buildings and street-lighting, universities, hospitals, schools and etc) and in view of involving in the project – the communities and public entities having approved financial discipline and having sufficient admnistrative and institutional abilities. These credits will be provided by Agreements of rendering wider energy services, under which the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund will provide additional services. The credits will be considered as debts with fixed repayment liabilities, for which budget allocations will be made in the future. The beneficiaries will be responsible for due maintenance of the systems, credit repayment and payment of service fees to  Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund under Energy services providing Agreements. The repayment amounts will be such that will allow the beneficiaries to pay for investment costs and services from accumulated energy savings.  No financial management or separate purchase assessments will be needed for participants of the Project since the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund will grant the credits directly to the contractors and will be ready for all purchases. All interested organizations that wish to be included in the program may submit an application, fill out a application form (arm version). Filled out the application and send by the following address. Yerevan, Proshyan 1st Lane, House 32 Tel: (374-10) 588011, 545121 Fax: (374-10) 541732 E-mail: info@r2e2.am URL: www.r2e2.am

12.03.2012 A Seminar on “ Energy efficiency technologies in the field of construction” took place on November 21-27  at the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund, based on which a business visit was organized to Austria from February 25 to March 4 by WIFI International Company and Armenian Association of Marketing. During the business visit the Fund specialists participated in the annual exhibition dedicated to “Energiespar Masse’’ international energy efficiency and renewable energy held in Wels (Austria). They also visited Graz, where “Wasserwerk Andritz” solar station was presented. It was built by S.O.L.I.D.Gesellschaft fՖr Solarinstallation und Design mbH company. They visited ECO WORLD STYRIA / STENUM (Cluster Environmental technology and renewable energy/advisory and research company), as well as the  “Blue Lagune” exhibition where they saw model houses consisting of prefabricated elements and containing energy efficient construction processing and technologies. They visited also Siemens AG, where they participated in the presentation on the subjects of Siemens – Real Estate  and Siemens – Energy. The participants were very impressed to visit and see the  Hallein – Rif/Taxach church, constructed  by using new energy efficient technologies. The carpentry workshop building was just as impressive, which was completely heated by solar panels and was awarded the prize of “Global energy 2011” presentation. The building was a solar heating system with combined concrete accumulator. Specialists of relevant fields from Russian Federation were also involved in the visit. The business trip was very important both in terms of exchange of experience and further cooperation. At the end of the business visit the participants were awarded with diplomas.

Workshop on   “Increase of domestic gas supply system operation level” project took place in “A-E-G Service” LLC Head office in May 4, 5 2011.  The project has developed R2E2 Fund.  The  objective of the project  was to ensure supply of  qualified and  affordable  services, and create   mutually beneficial relations between the organization providing domestic gas  systems and  companies introducing domestic gas supply equipment, construction assembling activities in  heat market of Armenia, supporting   in  solution  of various problems in the sector. On the first day the workshop was planned for the members of staff.  Fund specialists Tigran Sekoyan and Hrant Ter-Gabrielyan gave speech on the following subjects:

Brief information about  domestic boilers in Armenia, existing  brands, models, types Energy efficiency Energy audit Normative documents, thermal/heat computation Condensate boilers Cascade boiler house Selection of boiler Technical provision, disorder

Materials include sketches, video and animation films. Presentations were held /passed with discussions, questions and answers. On the second day the carpenters from  Yerevan, Gyumri, and Vanadzor were invited to participate in the workshop. The experts of the Fund presented the main issues concerning importing, installation and technical provision of domestic wall boilers in Armenia. The participants were briefly introduced   with the thermal computation, structural characteristics of the boilers, operation principals of condensate boilers; video and animation films were shown. Afterwards representatives of number of leading companies in Armenia represented boilers, which were imported and installed by their companies, their structure, technical specifications, operation methods, particularly:

• “Artklima” LLC represented condensate boilers BOSCH and FEROLI  ,
• “Mekusich : PC represented  boiler   DAEWOO,
• “Thermosis” LLC represented boiler  SAUNIER DUVAIL
• “Tun Kompleks” LLC represented condensate boilers BERETTA and IMMERGAS

The participants of the workshop were introduced the component parts of the boilers, principles of their operation, characteristics. Several issues were explained concerning the subject. At the end of the workshop Fund expert Tigran Sekoyan claimed that the “A-E-G Service” LLC and R2E2 Fund will undertake measures to continue further cooperation

27.11.2011 The <<Sparogh>> journal has touched upon problems related to increase of domestic gas consumption systems service level. Harmonized and consentient work of all involved parties is necessary for  increasing gas consumption equipment service level of consumers and in particular population, as well as in terms of operative response, security and other reasons. Numerous discussions have been conducted by Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund advisors and <<AEG Service>> L.L.C. specialists to clarify these issues.  Those discussions were published touched upon in 2nd and 3rd issues of the <<Sparogh>> journal.

A meeting between Inogate project and Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund specialists took place on October 4 at Fund. During the meeting the Inogate project specialists presented a Business plan within the framework of “Support to Energy Market Integration and Sustainable Energy in the NIS (SEMISE)” Project on improving the capacity of energy efficiency construction materials production in Armenia..  Tomas Filippou, Stavros Mantzanakis and Artak Ter-Torosyan gave speeches.  The Director of the Funds thanked the reporters for Project presentation and exchange of experience. presentations

Be informed that the new edition of “Management of local boiler houses” Practical Guideline has been published to assist in the reliable and safe operation of school boiler houses and heating systems built within the framework of Urban heating project compiled by the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund specialists.  This is a training manual (only armenian version)  for operating, responsible and managing staff of small and medium capacity local boiler houses. Manual includes:

General information on heating organization Obligations of the worker responsible /in charge of/ operating condition and safe operation of the boiler house and heating system Requirements for operators of water heating boiler house Operation instruction for heating system Rules for natural gas safe usage First aid to sufferers New heating technologies (condensation boilers) and etc.

On July 28, 2011 in Gavar within the framework of Memorandum signed on April 26, 2011 between “A-E-G Service” LTD and  Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund according to  Agreement 11/26 signed on July 15, 2011 took place the seminar-training for the employees and rofessionals of   “A-E-G  Service” LTD Gavar, Martuni, Sevan, Kotayk services  /including Martuni, Vardenis, Sevan, Chambarak, Hrazdan, Charentsavan setors/. The best experts in the field of boilers management systems <<MEKUSICH>> LLC and <<HOUSE Complex>> LLC companies with  their  South Korean HYDROSTA and Italian IMMERGAS HYDROSTA domestic gas boilers are involved in the training courses. images

On July 20, 2011 in Yeghegnadzor within the framework of Memorandum signed on April 26, 2011 between “A-E-G Service” LTD and   Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund according to Agreement 11/26 signed on July 15, 2011 took place the seminar-training  for the employees and professionals of “A-E-G  Service” LTD Ararat, Artashat, Syunik, Vayots Dzor services /including Artashat, Masis, Kapan, Goris, Sisian,  Kadjaran, Yeghegnadzor, Vayk, Jermuk sectors/. The best experts in the field of boilers management systems <<MEKUSICH>> LLC  and <<HOUSE Complex>> LLC companies with  their South Korean HYDROSTA and Italian IMMERGAS HYDROSTA domestic gas boilers are involved in the training courses. Images

Will a geothermal power plant be in Armenia?

Relevant studies are being conducted for building the first geothermal power plant in Armenia. The director of the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund Tamara Babayan informed about this during her meeting with journalists. She stated that the studies were carried out in Karkar and Gridzor. The total project price makes 1 mln. USD, which is the grant of the World bank. “The study results will be summarized at the end of the year and only then it will be known whether it is feasible to build a geothermal power plant. The extent of probability is unknown, it is also not excluded that after the study the power plant will be impossible to build”, mentioned Tamara Babayan and noticed that there were no geothermal power plants in the region, although they were spread in the European countries. official source

13.07.2011 The “Renewable Energy Roadmap for Armenia “ Project brochure has been issued, which has been published by the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund. It has been compiled by both local and international best specialists and describes the utilization of technically affordable, economically and financially valuable /profitable/ RE potential for the generation of electrical, thermal and fuel energy, aimed to increase energy independence of the country and assist to solve global environmental problems.

13.07.2011 Within the framework of CE “Model” Regional Project the “Municipal Intelligent Energy Days” workshop took place on June 13 in Spitak city of Lori marz. It was organized by Spitak Municipality and Energy efficiency fund NGO. The Fund specialist Tigran Sekoyan gave a speech at the workshop and presented the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund activity in the energy efficiency field. presentation (armenia version)

“Assistance to reforms” NGO in cooperation with the R2E2 Fund conducted marz and community meetings under the Public Awareness Project. The participants of the meetings were the heads of marzes and communities, directors of schools and other organizations, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders. The meetings were held in an active discussion environment, replies to several issues raised were given. The meetings were conducted in Ararat, Shirak, Gegharkunik, Kotayk, Lori and Tavush marzes. They were accompanied with showing the slides and the film “Achievements and Progress in Renewable Energy”. Also, two radio programs by Public Radio, as well as two TV studio programs were broadcasted by “Armnews” and “Yerevan” TV companies; the articles were published in “Hayastani Hanrapetutyun”, “Aravot”, “Novoye Vremya” newspapers, as well as in other eight newspapers of marzes; the film “Achievements and Progresses of Renewable Energy” was broadcasted by Hayastani Hanrapetutyun TV channel and eight TV companies of marzes. The meetingwere broadcasted by marz and public mass media as well.

28.06.2011 Armenia Renewable Energy Roadmap arrangement took place in “Arthur’s” complex ( v. Arzakan,  Kotayk marz) in  June 25-26, 2011. It was organized by the Armenia Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency Fund and Expomedia LLC centre. The Roadmap describes the utilization of technically affordable, economically and financially valuable RE potential for the generation of electrical, thermal and fuel energy, aimed to increase energy independence of the country and assist to solve global environmental problems. The Project involves envisaged targets for short-term, mid-term (2015) and long-term (2020) perspectives: at the same time proposing promoting policy elements, which were thoroughly discussed during the event. This kind of project was developed for the first time in Armenia, where utilization opportunities of all the RE sources were offered comprehensively. Local and foreign   specialists took part in the development of the project. The project was financed by The World Bank Grant. RE technological problems, such as  construction of  “Low capacity plants”,  modern electrical transportation means, including problems relating  development level of current electro mobile, as well as, wind power network, Solar PV transformation and water heating, biomass,  thermal pumps, hydro-accumulating  stations, hydrogen plant and other issues were discussed  during the event.  Many officials from different state entities, NGO-s, financial institutions, as well as  scientists, businessmen, experts, investors were invited to participate in the event.  Dynamic discussions on the mentioned issues continued during two days. Armenia R2E2  Fund director T. Babayan,  WB “Renewable energy project” coordinator A.Marjanyan, A. Hambaryan from the  American University of Armenia, the president of Small hydro Power Assosiation  N. Nahapetyan,  officials from the Public Services  Regulatory Commission of the RA and  scientists, experts had speeches and presentations during the event.

The Director of the Fund Tamara Babayan took part in the International 3rd Forum of Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency held on October 17-18 in Ukraine.Tamara Babayan gave a speech on “Small HPP development perspectives and investments in Armenia”, which received many positive responses. For more details please refer to the official website.

 Armenia may increase the level of energy produced by renewable sources 5 times by 2020, said director of Renewable Energy Fund Tamara Babayan.

For the first time in Armenia a program-guideline for development of renewable energy was elaborated with the participation of experts from Armenia and Europe.

According to Babayan, small hydro power projects, solar water heaters, wind mills and heat pumps, will have great potential in the near future.

Construction of small hydropower plants has been launched in Armenia since 2004. Overall 130 licenses were given for the construction of small hydropower plants.

The program indicates development of renewable energy is hampered by difficulties in obtaining permissions, as well as lack of tax concessions.

 On October 28-30 the Fund specialists took part in the 10th Anniversary of “Our house” annual construction exhibition held in the capital of the Autonomous Republic оf Adzharia – Batumi. The leader of the Autonomous Republic оf Adzharia –Levan Varshalomidze and several other officials were present at the opening ceremony of the Exhibition. “Expomedia” Center of Exhibition Projects L.L.C. was the official organizer of this activity in Armenia.  The aim of the exhibition was to unite the Armenian and international organizations engaged in the sectors of construction, repairing and maintenance, design and projection by providing high quality production and services. About 70 organizations from Armenia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Iran and Georgia took part in the exhibition. During this activity the Director of the Fund Tamara Babayan had an official meeting with the Minister of Education, culture and sport of Adzharia – Gua Abuladze. Many issues on heating sector were discussed during the meeting, namely the school heating issue.

20.02.2011 General Guidelines for use of EMP checklist:

For low-risk construction projects, such as minor building rehabilitation works or the retrofitting of heating systems and insulation, the ECA (Europe and Central Asia) safeguards team developed an alternative EMP (environmental management plan) format to provide an opportunity for a more streamlined approach to mainstreaming the World Bank’s environmental safeguards requirements into projects which (a) are small in scale or by the nature of the planned activities have a low potential environmental impact, (b) are located in countries with well functioning country systems for environmental assessment and management. The checklist-type format has been developed to ensure that basic good practice measures are recognized and implemented, while designed to be both user friendly and compatible with the World Bank’s safeguards requirements. The EMP checklist-type format attempts to cover typical key mitigation measures to civil works contracts with small, localized impacts or of a simple, low risk nature. This format provides the key elements of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to meet the minimum World Bank Environmental Assessment requirements for Category B projects under OP 4.01. The intention of this checklist is that it offers practical, concrete and implementable guidance to Contractors and supervising Engineers for simple civil works contracts. It should be completed during the final design phase and, either freestanding or in combination with any environmental documentation produced under national law (e.g. EIA reports), constitute an integral part of the bidding documents and eventually the works contracts. The checklist EMP has the following sections: Part 1    includes a descriptive part that characterizes the project, specifies institutional and regulatory aspects, describes technical project content, outlines any potential need for capacity building and briefly characterizes the public consultation process. This section should indicatively be up to two pages long. Attachments for additional information may be supplemented as needed. Part 2    includes a screening checklist of potential environmental and social impacts, where activities and potential environmental issues can be checked in a simple Yes/No format. If any given activity/issue is triggered by checking “yes”, a reference to the appropriate section in the table in the subsequent Part C can be followed, which contains clearly formulated environmental and social management and mitigation measures. Part 3    represents the environmental monitoring plan to follow up proper implementation of the measures triggered under Part B. It has the same format as required for MPs produced under standard safeguards requirements for Category B projects.