LocationsUNDP and CIDCA Hand Over Solar Heating Systems to 48 Households in Chingeltei District
August 18, 2026
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) and Chingeltei District, handed over solar-powered heating systems to 48 households, marking an important step in expanding clean energy solutions for Ulaanbaatar’s ger areas.
The handover is part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on coal-based heating, improve air quality, and accelerate Mongolia’s just energy transition. In Ulaanbaatar, coal burning in ger districts remains a major source of fine particulate pollution, contributing to serious health, environmental, and economic costs.
The solar heating systems enable participating households to generate clean energy for their own heating and electricity needs while supplying surplus electricity to the central grid. This creates opportunities for households to reduce energy costs, generate additional income, and contribute directly to cleaner air and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
The “Upgrading Ger Districts in Ulaanbaatar Through Solar Photovoltaic System Implementation” project is funded by CIDCA and implemented by UNDP. The project aims to support 450 households in Chingeltei District over a two-year period through the installation of household-level solar heating systems consisting of photovoltaic panels with battery storage, electric heaters, smart meters, real-time monitoring systems for carbon credit verification, and community training on the benefits of renewable energy.
Manduul Nyamandeleg, Governor of Chingeltei District, emphasized: "This initiative demonstrates how renewable energy can improve the lives of our residents in practical ways. Beyond providing clean and reliable heating, these solar systems allow households to become energy producers, generate additional income, and contribute to reducing air pollution in our district. We greatly appreciate the support from CIDCA and UNDP in bringing this innovative solution to Chingeltei."
Cao Li, Charge d’Affaires a.i., Embassy of the People's Republic of China to Mongolia, highlighted: "China is pleased to support Mongolia's efforts to promote green and low-carbon development through this CIDCA-funded cooperation. This project brings practical benefits to local communities by expanding access to clean energy, improving household livelihoods, and contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for Mongolia."
Beate Trankmann, UNDP Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, said: "Across Asia and the Pacific, UNDP supports countries to advance a just and inclusive green transition that improves lives while reducing emissions. This handover to Chingeltei district shows how renewable energy can turn national climate plans into practical benefits for households — strengthening energy security, reducing air pollution, and creating new income opportunities. We are grateful to the People's Republic of China and CIDCA for their support. Through this initiative, we aim to explore innovative financing for Ulaanbaatar by trading carbon savings on international markets. By shifting away from coal-based heating, we can turn carbon savings into investments that benefit local communities."
Aligned with Mongolia’s national climate and energy priorities, the project contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, including affordable and clean energy, climate action, and sustainable cities and communities. UNDP thanks the Government of Mongolia for its continued leadership and partnership in advancing renewable energy solutions. As the country moves forward with its renewable energy ambitions, strong collaboration among government, development partners, the private sector, and local communities will be essential to ensure that the benefits of the green transition are shared widely and equitably.
About UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with a broad network of experts and partners in more than 170 countries and territories, UNDP helps nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.
Contact
Khulan Bayarsaikhan | Communications Analyst | UNDP Mongolia | khulan.bayarsaikhan@undp.org