ABSTRACT
In evaluation terms, there is a strong emphasis on effectiveness, with evidence taking the form of expected or documented emission reductions per unit of technology, time, and money. The most appropriate mix of energy sources may be chosen from a menu of potential low-carbon technology investments for deploying in a location according to its special ecological and social conditions, ideally in the context of an over-arching low-carbon development plan. The World Bank Group's (WBG) direct lending for renewable energy is dominated by hydropower, the only grid technology for which there is a substantial evaluable record at the WBG. The single largest WBG response has been to support the deployment of bus rapid transit systems, which cost much less than tramways or subways. Direct WBG investments in wind power have been modest In the context of support by several donors, a Swiss grant focused on delivering hydro-mechanical equipment for the Fierza hydropower plant (HPP) at the top of the cascade.
