Renewable Energy Policy

The Renewable Energy Policy is a national Policy aims to use renewable natural resources of the country for energy provisions. The time frame of the Policy is between 2015 to 2032, which is divided into two period: 2015- 2020 with focus on the development of renewable energy sectors and support the public-private partnership; 2021 – 2032 with focus on commercialization of renewable energies. The Policy sets a target that by 2032, 95% of all energy consumption of the country be produced through renewable sources. The Renewable Energy Coordination Committee is established to coordinate the activities of different sectors pertaining to renewable energies. The overall objectives of the Policy include: meet the short-term energy needs of the country; increase the sustainable use of renewable energy resources; encourage private sector to invest in development of renewable energy programs through provision of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives; increase involvement of governmental organizations, NGOs, donors and communities in growth of renewable energy sector; increase international and regional cooperation; protect environment and public health; mitigate climate change policies. The scope of the Policy includes all renewable energy resources, including solar (photovoltaic and thermal), wind, biomass, small hydro, biogas, municipal waste, geothermal, fuel cells, clean storage and hybrids of the two or more of the above. The Ministry of Energy and Water is the authority responsible to implement the Policy and prepare any necessary relevant strategies and plans. The Zonal Renewable Energy Centers will be established to follow the implementation of rural renewable energy programs in their specific regions. The Policy requires increases in the systematic and human capacity of Afghan institutions to an international standard level. This capacity enhancement is a principal key for the development of technical, managerial, financial, and social aspects of renewable energies programs. The Policy sets out a quality control mechanism to ensure that renewable energy resources are in their best condition to have the maximum output. The Policy encourages and supports the creation and development of local renewable energy enterprises and start-up through training, financial assistance, and tax reduction. The Policy also creates a monitoring and evaluation system. The role of women in the development of renewable energy programs is emphasized and the Policy requires the skill-based training for women who are active in the field.