Central Asian Energy Efficiency Support Program (CAEESP) Quarterly Performance Report: January – March 2012

The program's objectives were aligned with the Government of Kazakhstan's energy efficiency policy objectives. ICF International, the program's implementing partner, conducted a 12-day visit tour in December to assess the situation and identify areas for improvement. Following the visit, ICF presented a new program path to the USAID Mission Director in late January, which was well-received. The program's aims were revised to closely align with the Government of Kazakhstan's objectives. ICF established a work program based on the revised aims, which included securing meetings with the government in Astana to discuss the aims and tactical objectives of the government. ICF also secured communications for the project by meeting with stakeholders to solicit their ideas and experiences with different approaches. The project's base of work was established in the Dostyk Business Centre on Avenue Dostyk in Almaty, after the original target premises became unavailable due to capital repairs. The program's overall progress for the quarter was focused on completing a holistic work program before commencing activities with a cost-sharing element. However, the pace of corporate registration presented a major issue, with logistical and legal requirements causing difficulties. The registration process was underway, and the project team was working to secure the work program in a correct manner, including strong support and "buy-in" from Kazakhstan's beneficiaries. Major activities conducted during the first quarter of FY 2012 included assessment and research, awareness, and program formation and execution. ICF continued to build its understanding of Kazakhstan's new energy efficiency policies following the adoption of the National Energy Efficiency Law. Meetings were held with organizations, including representatives of NGOs, industrial associations, the financial sector, and the government. ICF also responded to the policy need of the Ministry of Industry and New Technology (MINT) by developing a cooperative plan to assist the ministry in its awareness campaign. The awareness campaign incorporated labeling on energy-using products, which connected with policies and actions concerning the labeling of domestic white goods imported and sold in Kazakhstan. ICF's expertise in this area was leveraged to devise a first-step work program and form a longer-term cooperation agreement with the government. The program's progress was marked by the establishment of a work program, the securing of communications, and the establishment of a base of work. The project team was working to overcome the challenges posed by the pace of corporate registration and to secure the work program in a correct manner. The program's activities were focused on assessment and research, awareness, and program formation and execution, with a strong emphasis on collaboration with the Government of Kazakhstan and other stakeholders.