UNIDO joins forces with ITAIPU and Electrobrás
The Organization intensifies its energy activities in the LAC region
Vienna, 12 December 2008 – Kandeh K. Yumkella, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with two major Brazilian energy companies: ITAIPU Binacional and Centrais Elétricas Brasileiras S.A (Eletrobrás). This innovative partnership has been codified in a Memorandum, which establishes a framework for cooperation between UNIDO and its counterparts, fostering the worldwide use of renewable energy sources and efficient energy technologies, to reduce poverty, increase economic growth and raise energy security.
Increasing the access to stable, modern and environmentally sustainable energy services will undoubtedly contribute to the establishment and consolidation of a variety of income generating productive activities which, without proper energy supply, would not have been able to become a part of the productive spectrum of these communities.
"Strong partnerships enable UNIDO to leverage resources and share its unique expertise. They also guarantee greater efficiency and sustainability. UNIDO will continue to improve its networks and alliances through strategic partnerships and cooperation in the field of renewable energy," said the Director-General of UNIDO.
ITAIPU Binacional, is the bi-national undertaking set up by Brazil and Paraguay to manage the hydroelectric power plant on the Paraná River, on the border between the two countries. It generates electricity using responsible social and environmental practices, supporting economic and technological development in both countries. Centrais Elétricas Brasileiras S.A., a public company of ITAIPU, conducts studies, implements projects and constructs and operates power plants, transmission lines and electricity distribution networks.
The high-level Brazilian-Paraguayan delegation, will also undertake visits to two biogas plants located in Lower Austria in order to explore the possibility of replicating such plants in the Paraná region.
For more information, please contact:
Mr. Gustavo Aishemberg
Tel.: +43 1 26026 3330