BAKU, AZERBAIJAN, COP29 of the UNFCCC Parties at Japan Pavillion, November 18, 2024 – Under the “Low Carbon Development Partnership” established between Mongolia and Japan in 2013, the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) has become a significant internationally recognized mechanism for collaboration aimed at mitigating climate change. Currently, 29 countries participate in the partnership, implementing over 250 projects globally, with Mongolia successfully advancing renewable energy and energy efficiency projects under this mechanism.
Representatives from 21 partner countries of the JCM participated in the summit, including a delegation from Mongolia led by H.E. Ms. Saldan ODONTUYA, Minister of Environment and Climate Change.
The High-level event was opened by Japan’s Minister of the Environment, H.E. Mr. Asao Keiichiro, who emphasized, “The JCM is one of the most active efforts as a cooperative approach consistent with Article 6. Let us continue sharing our knowledge and experiences among partner countries as we strive towards a prosperous and sustainable future. Japan is dedicated to delivering our best effort. I look forward to our continued collaboration, which is crucial for the success of this important endeavor.”
In her speech, Mongolia’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, H.E. Ms. S. Odontuya, highlighted that “Mongolia is committed to achieving its goal of a low-carbon, sustainable future. To expand JCM projects and programs and attract investments, we will implement measures such as clarifying policies and regulations, enhancing transparency, and streamlining formalization processes.” She also expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for its steadfast collaboration.
Contribution of JCM to Climate Change Mitigation in Mongolia
The JCM supports Mongolia’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by introducing advanced technologies and renewable energy solutions, improving energy efficiency, developing infrastructure, and building human resource capacity with investment support from Japan.
Projects with low carbon emissions and environmentally friendly, innovative solutions have been successfully implemented through a total of $160 million in private sector investment, including $40 million in grant aid from the Japanese government. Additionally, these initiatives promote independent private investment opportunities and ensure internationally standardized emission reduction measurements in addition to expanding renewable energy usage and improving air quality.
JCM Contributions to the Energy Sector of Mongolia
Mongolia’s total installed renewable energy capacity is 323 MW, of which 57.7 MW (18%) is attributed to solar power plants implemented under the JCM. Notable projects include:
• A 10 MW solar power plant in Darkhan City
• A 15 MW solar power plant in Sergelen soum, Tuv Province
• A 12.7 MW hybrid for agriculture and renewable energy in Ulaanbaatar
• A 5 MW solar power plant with a 3.6 MWh battery system in Zavkhan Province
• A 15 MW solar power plant in Erdene soum, Dornogovi Province
These projects deliver 400 million kWh of electricity to the central grid annually and reduce approximately 230,000 tons of CO₂ emissions per year.
Beyond renewable energy, the JCM supports projects that improve energy efficiency, reduce air pollution, and promote environmentally friendly practices. Key initiatives include:
• Upgraded heating systems in schools, kindergartens, and soum centers, such as School No. 118 and Bornuur soum in Tuv Province
• Switching coal-fired boilers to gas technology at the MCS Coca-Cola facility in Bayanzurkh District
• Constructed a 160 km, 220 kV low-loss power transmission line connecting Oyu Tolgoi and Tsagaan Suvarga substations
Alignment with Climate Change Goals
The JCM aligns closely with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Consistent with Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement, the JCM, the JCM supports the implementation of Mongolia’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), ensuring transparency, environmental integrity, and gender equality for each project.
Mongolia remains committed to fulfilling its obligations under the UNFCCC, submitting the initial report on cooperation between Mongolia and Japan under the requirements of Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement to the UNFCCC Secretariat.