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Source: The post is based on the article “India may build solar infra in Pacific island nations amid Chinese push” published in Livemint on 20th July 2023.
What is the News?
India is considering expanding its solar STAR-C initiative to a number of Pacific Island countries.
What is the STAR-C Initiative?
The STAR-C Initiative is being led by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization(UNIDO) with funding from the Government of France.
Aim: To create a strong network of institutional capacities within ISA Member States to enhance quality infrastructure (QI) for the uptake of solar energy product and service markets, particularly in least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS).
– To boost solar power ecosystems in the poorest countries.
Activities under the initiative: Building solar workforces, standardizing products, setting up infrastructure and raising awareness among policymakers in developing countries.
Focus regions: STAR C project will initially focus on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the East African Community (EAC) and the Pacific Community (SPC)/Pacific Island Forum (PIF).
Significance: India’s expansion of the STAR-C initiative in Pacific Island countries demonstrates its commitment to promoting solar power ecosystems and addressing climate change in the region.
