RFP FOR VOCATIONAL TRAINING ON RENEWABLE SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

United Nations Development Programme, hereinafter referred to as UNDP  hereby invites prospective bidders to submit a Request for proposal for  Provision of Turnkey 80-100 kWp Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems for Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency Common Facility Center (CFC) in Idu, Abuja, Nigeria.

Type of Consultancy: NATIONAL 

CURRENCY: NGN 

LOCATION: ABUJA, NIGERIA

BACKGROUND The global push towards sustainable development and the urgent need to mitigate climate change have positioned renewable energy as a critical sector for economic growth and environmental stewardship. In Nigeria, where youth unemployment remains a significant challenge, there is an unprecedented opportunity to leverage the renewable energy sector as a catalyst for youth empowerment and entrepreneurship. Training young people in renewable solar energy systems not only addresses the pressing need for skilled labor but also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). This training program is designed to equip 200 participants with the technical and entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in the renewable energy sector. By focusing on solar energy, the program supports the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria, fostering a new generation of energy entrepreneurs. These young entrepreneurs will play a pivotal role in driving the countrys transition to a low-carbon economy, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable business practices. Upon completion of their training, participants will have the opportunity to apply their newly acquired skills within SMEDAN’s network of Industrial Development Centres (IDCs) across the country. These centers, which are strategically located to support MSMEs, will provide a fertile ground for these young entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses. By utilizing the infrastructure and resources available at the IDCs, the trained individuals can facilitate entrepreneurship, contribute to local economic development, and ensure the sustainability of solar energy projects across Nigeria. Moreover, the program emphasizes the importance of building capacity in renewable energy, not just as a technical skill, but as a pathway to economic empowerment. By integrating entrepreneurship training into the curriculum, the program ensures that participants are equipped to start and scale their own businesses, contributing to Nigerias broader economic diversification efforts and helping to achieve the SDGs. This initiative is a critical step towards a future where young Nigerians are at the forefront of innovation and sustainability, driving economic growth while ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy for all.

Nigeria is currently grappling with a significant energy challenge, where a substantial portion of its population lacks access to reliable and sustainable electricity. This issue not only hinders economic development but also exacerbates poverty and limits opportunities for social progress, particularly in rural and underserved areas. With the global shift towards cleaner energy sources, Nigeria has recognized the need to diversify its energy mix, placing a strong emphasis on renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power. However, the successful implementation of solar energy projects across the country is contingent on the availability of a skilled workforce capable of designing, installing, maintaining, and managing these systems. The existing gap in technical skills presents a formidable barrier to the widespread adoption of solar energy. To address this, there is an urgent need for specialized training programs that equip individuals with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to drive the renewable energy sector forward. By producing a new generation of skilled solar energy technicians, the program seeks to ensure the sustainability and scalability of solar projects, support the country’s energy transition, and create new employment opportunities in a growing sector. This initiative aligns with national development priorities and global commitments to reduce carbon emissions and foster sustainable development. Furthermore, by empowering Nigerian youths with these skills, the program will enable them to contribute significantly to the operational success of MSMEs through the support provided by SMEDAN’s IDCs, thereby fostering entrepreneurship and supporting sustainable growth nationwide.

SCOPE OF WORK 

The comprehensive training of 200 participants in renewable solar energy systems. The goal is to equip participants with the skills necessary to design, install, operate, and maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The program is structured to ensure that trainees not only gain technical knowledge but also develop practical, hands-on experience and entrepreneurship skills that will enable them to contribute effectively to Nigerias renewable energy sector. 

1. Needs Assessment: 

 Objective: To tailor the training program to the specific needs and skill levels of the participants. 

 Activities: Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify participants existing skill levels and the specific training required. This will involve surveys, interviews, and practical evaluations to ensure that the program is customized to meet participants needs. 

2. Curriculum Development:

Objective: To design a curriculum that thoroughly covers both theoretical and practical aspects of solar PV systems. 

 Activities: o Develop a detailed curriculum covering theoretical and practical aspects of solar energy systems, including modules on solar energy principles, system design, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. 

The curriculum will also cover essential business management skills such as soft skills, marketing, branding, and financial management to prepare participants for successful entrepreneurship in the renewable energy sector. 

The curriculum should be structured to progress from basic to advanced concepts, ensuring that participants of all skill levels can benefit from the training. 

3. Training Material Preparation: 

 Objective: To provide participants with high-quality training materials. 

 Activities: Prepare and supply all necessary training materials, including design templates, tools, and materials for hands-on practice. These materials will include detailed guides, patterns, and step-by-step instructions to ensure that participants can produce a range of professional-quality installations and designs. 

4. Training Delivery: 

 Objective: To equip participants with practical skills in solar PV systems. 

 Activities:  Theoretical Training: Conduct classroom sessions to teach design principles, material science, and business management. 

Practical Training: Facilitate hands-on workshops where participants will design, construct, and install solar PV systems, using real materials and tools. These workshops will focus on developing both technical and creative skills. 

 Entrepreneurship Training: Provide business training to help participants understand how to start and manage a successful solar energy business, including brand development and customer engagement. 

 On-Site Visits: Arrange visits assembly plant and other solar installation sites to provide participants with real-world experience and insights into the entire solar energy lifecycle.