Transformational Change – Guidance for Technology Needs Assessment

Transformational technology cooperation aims to promote systemic, multi-level change for a sustainability transition aligned with the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda global goals. Support to developing countries through Technology Needs Assessments (TNAs), including Technology Action Plans (TAPs), has been provided by the UNFCCC and has played a key role in the identification of climate-related technologies that are responsive to countries’ mitigation and adaptation technologies since 2010, when the Technology Mechanism of the UN Climate Convention was established.  Implementation of these identified technologies paves the way towards countries’ low-carbon and climate-resilient development.

Essential to this support effort has been the provision of guidance material to address key issues related to TNA. The present guidance note adds to this library of material, focussing on the consideration and incorporation of transformational change in the TNA process. This guidance therefore reflects upon and provides guidance to countries on how to promote transformational change through the TNA process, thereby contributing to the achievement of the transformational changes envisioned in the Paris Agreement through the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). 

Building on the notion of transformational change outlined in the Paris Agreement, the 2030 Agenda and the UNFCCC Technology Framework, the concept is defined, and its operationalisation discussed in the context of the TNA process. Two case studies from previous TNAs, in Mongolia and Moldova, illustrate how transformational characteristics, outcomes and impacts can be assessed and promoted. Finally, the guidance note presents strategic opportunities and recommendations for TNAs to promote transformational change. 

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