Designing Clean Energy Solutions for a UN Agency

With its bold commitment to sustainability, UNICEF Afghanistan is leading by example.  To ensure its critical work for children continues uninterrupted while reducing its environmental footprint, UNICEF embarked on a critical mission: to modernize its energy infrastructure across the country.

Reliance on unpredictable grid power and diesel generators posed operational, financial, and environmental risks. UNICEF needed a clear, actionable roadmap to transition its nine offices, from Kabul to remote provinces like Uruzgan and Ghor, toward reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective energy.

Partnering with Shatoot Consultants, UNICEF initiated an eight-month, comprehensive electrical assessment. This assignment was designed to strengthen UNICEF’s infrastructure modernization efforts by assessing electrical systems, auditing power usage, and designing modern solar solutions that enhance efficiency and support a transition toward low‑carbon operations.

The project delivered critical insights and actionable designs that will guide UNICEF’s renewable energy transition across its national network:

  • 9 UNICEF offices assessed, including the Country Office and 8 zonal/field offices.
  • 32 generators tested for performance and capacity under real load conditions.
  • Electrical as‑built drawings produced for each site, ensuring accurate documentation.
  • 9 complete technical packages delivered, each including:
    • Electrical Assessment and Power Audit Reports
    • Solar System Design and PV Payback Analysis
    • Detailed BoQs, CAD files, and technical specifications
    • Maintenance Manuals in English, Dari, and Pashto
  • A comprehensive technician training program conducted for UNICEF’s in‑house teams on operation, maintenance, and safety.

UNICEF’s commitment to sustainability was reflected in the development of scalable solar and hybrid power system designs that reduce emissions, improve energy reliability, and strengthen resilience. The Power Audit Reports and PV Payback Analyses provided a clear financial case for renewable adoption, demonstrating the long term value of solar investments.
Meanwhile, technician training sessions empowered UNICEF’s field teams with the skills to manage, troubleshoot, and maintain electrical and solar systems independently—ensuring sustainability well into the future.