Purpose

To complete a market needs and environmental assessment for RE and EE products and services in Fiji, Samoa and Vanuatu, in order to build the commitment and interest of microfinance institutions (MFIs) in funding RE/EE projects.

A follow-up project will then assist with the actual development of innovative, sustainable RE and EE loan products. Funding for this phase will be sought in the next call for proposals.

Main Activities

• Complete a baseline study to assess the prospects for RE and EE lending in Pacific Island Countries (PICs), specifically Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa. The report is aimed at familiarizing microfinance experts and other stakeholders before embarking on training for MFIs on RE and EE.
• Create a training manual and conduct a training workshop for MFIs to gain basic knowledge on RE and EE and how to conduct a market needs and environmental assessment on RE and EE.
• Each MFI to complete a market needs and environmental assessment.
• Hold an in country workshop for all participating MFIs to monitor progress and assist in completing analysis of the market and environmental surveys in the 3 countries.
• Make all project information available on FDC, Microfinance Pasifika Network and REEEP websites.