The UNDP “Sustainable Communities” programme has successfully completed the Solar24 initiative. Through this project, 10 kW solar PV systems and 50 LED street lighting lamps were installed in each of the 20 settlements. In total, 1,000 LED lamps were provided, illuminating approximately 30 kilometers of road, which is expected to reduce electricity consumption by 240,000 kW per year. The total financial support for the project amounted to over $250,000.

“This initiative marked a significant step in our commitment to promoting sustainable energy use and improving the quality of life in our communities. The project aimed not only to lower electricity costs and create safer, well-lit environments for residents, but also to set a precedent for the energy self-sufficiency of communities. Feedback from residents and community leaders highlights the project’s positive impact, effectiveness, and importance, reaffirming that such initiatives contribute to community development,” said Susanna Safaryan, a UNDP “Sustainable Communities” programme expert.

The project provided support to the following settlements:

Aragatsotn Region

• Ashtarak: Kosh, Ujan, Voskevan, and Oshakan
• Talin: Arteni

Kotayk Region

• Tsaghkadzor: Meghradzor
• Charentsavan: Arzakan, Bjni
• Hrazdan: Qaghsi, Lernanist

Ararat Region

• Vedi: Urtsadzor, Aigavan, and Lusarat

Armavir Region

• Metsamor: Mrgashat, Armavir, Nalbandyan, and Bambakashat
• Arevshat: Aragats, Dovri, Arshaluys

The Solar24 program was implemented this year in four regions: Ararat, Armavir, Aragatsotn, and Kotayk. The project was co-financed with an 80/20 split, where UNDP contributed 80% of the total cost and the communities covered the remaining 20%.