New phase of Technology Needs Assessments starts

As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities, ecosystems, and economies globally, the role of technology in mitigating and adapting to these impacts is more crucial than ever.

Responding to this need, the Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) project is advancing into its fifth phase, supporting 17 countries in identifying and deploying climate technologies tailored to their specific requirements.

The start of the new phase of the TNA project comes at a crucial time, with countries finishing their updated NDCs for the submission deadline in early 2025. The new, and more ambitious, NDC targets will form the framework of the TNA technology prioritization, linking climate technology implementation closely with national climate targets in the 17 countries. With the ultimate goal of assisting them achieve their Paris Agreement contributions and wider development goals.

Towards climate technology implementation

The fifth phase of the TNA project, which received CEO endorsement from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in September 2024, will assist countries that have previously participated in the TNA process and now need to update their assessments, as well as support nations undertaking their first TNA.

This phase will provide targeted financial and technical assistance, helping the countries develop Technology Action Plans that outline specific implementation steps aligned with NDC targets for each identified technology, making them ready for funding and deployment.

Moreover, the TNA process in this new phase will be enhanced to offer greater flexibility and deeper integration with national climate strategies, such as the NDCs. This includes refining methodologies for stakeholder engagement, multi-criteria analysis, barrier analysis, and the preparation of project concepts that are attractive to potential funders and implementers.

The overall goal is to strengthen in-country capacity to conduct TNAs effectively, ensuring that the identified technologies are not only suitable for the local context but also poised for successful implementation.

Harnessing technology against climate change

Since its inception in 2009, the TNA project, funded by the GEF and executed by UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre, has helped over 100 countries develop concrete, actionable plans for climate technology deployment. These plans are designed to be integrated into national planning processes and complement existing climate strategies, including NDCs, Net Zero goals, and Long-Term Strategies.

 By focusing on the unique technological needs of each participating country, the TNA project facilitates the adoption of climate technologies that can make a tangible difference in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing climate resilience. The project’s outcome—nationally endorsed and integrated technology plans—will play a crucial role in advancing global climate goals while addressing local environmental challenges.

Work on the fifth phase now starts with countries setting up their national institutional frameworks, that will enable stakeholder engagement and climate technology prioritization based on national needs and strategies.

The new phase of the TNA project marks another important step in the global effort to harness technology in the fight against climate change. Through the TNA project, these 17 countries will be better equipped to transition to low-carbon economies, contributing to global climate action while addressing their specific national and regional challenges.