In Tavush, the sun not only warms but also transforms into energy—creating new opportunities for communities. Within the framework of the UN Development Programme’s “Resilience from the Start” project, solar systems are being installed in the Ijevan community. The initiative is being implemented with the support of the Government of Serbia and is part of a broader program aimed at responding to the needs of both displaced persons and the communities hosting them—by offering sustainable solutions directed at fostering social cohesion.
Tatjana Panayotović Cvetković, Serbia’s Ambassador to Armenia, mentioned in a conversation with Tavush Media:
“I am happy to be once again in Tavush Province. The ‘Resilience from the Start’ project is both humanitarian and development-oriented. For the first time, Serbia is becoming a development partner, and we decided to implement several projects here in Armenia through the UN Development Programme. Of the 1 million euros that the Government of Serbia is allocating to Armenia, the majority will be directed to Tavush Province. I am pleased that these projects are aimed at empowering women, supporting green energy, and also water resource management.”
Within the framework of the program, solar photovoltaic and water-heating systems are being installed in the communities of Ijevan, Berd, and Noyemberyan, with a total capacity exceeding 213 kW. This reduces costs and ensures stable energy supply—even during emergencies. A key component of the project is also the management of water resources. In Aghajur, a daily-regulated reservoir is being constructed with a useful volume of over 5,600 cubic meters. As a result, the irrigated land area will increase by around 120 hectares, enabling the development of the community’s agriculture at a new level.
“Priority is given to those settlements, families, and communities most in need of support. The main goal of this project is to strengthen women’s participation in community life, to create reservoirs, and to install solar systems for energy efficiency. Firstly, it generates electricity and can serve as an independent power source; secondly, solar panels save energy; and finally, children, from a young age, can already understand the benefits of renewable energy and solar systems in their community,” stated Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia.
The program also has a social focus. In Sarigyugh, a solar system installed on the roof of a large family’s home meets both household and entrepreneurial needs. Meanwhile, in Aygehovit, a 10 kW solar system installed at the kindergarten will fully cover the institution’s energy needs.
As a result of the program, communities receive sustainable energy and water solutions that reduce expenses and improve residents’ living conditions. The “green” solutions are also opportunities—to build a sustainable future.
