The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) continues to champion sustainable solutions in crisis zones by issuing tenders for the installation of solar-powered water systems in Yemen. These initiatives are vital for providing life-sustaining resources to communities affected by conflict and displacement.
Details of the Yemen solar water tender
As part of its ongoing efforts, the UNHCR frequently seeks qualified partners to implement critical infrastructure projects. A recent example is a tender for a comprehensive solar-powered water supply system in Kharaz, Lahj. These opportunities are typically open to private companies and NGOs with proven experience in developing renewable energy solutions for challenging environments.
The scope of such projects is extensive, often including:
* Well drilling, casing, and filtration
* Supply and installation of a solar-powered pumping system
* Civil and rehabilitation works
* Installation of a full piping and distribution network
Interested parties are encouraged to monitor the UN Global Marketplace (UNGM) for the latest tender documents and submission deadlines. For instance, the tender for the Kharaz project, managed by the UNHCR Sub Office in Aden, had a submission deadline of November 26, 2025.
The selected contractor is responsible for the complete lifecycle of the project: design, supply of all raw materials, installation, testing, and commissioning. The system will feature solar panels, water storage tanks, and a distribution network designed to provide a reliable supply of water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. It will also be equipped with a monitoring system to track usage and ensure operational efficiency.
Objective of the Project
The primary goal of these projects is to establish a sustainable and reliable water source for sites hosting internally displaced persons (IDPs). The use of solar power is a key strategic choice, as it significantly reduces the reliance on expensive and environmentally damaging diesel generators.
This initiative is expected to have a profound impact on the lives of IDPs. It directly improves access to clean water, which is fundamental for health and hygiene. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for water trucking—an expensive, unreliable, and often precarious method of supply in conflict areas. These projects are a testament to how the basics of solar panel manufacturing can translate into life-changing humanitarian aid.
By providing a sustainable water source, the solar-powered system also empowers IDP communities to become more self-reliant, reducing their dependence on external aid. This aligns with broader goals of fostering resilience and improving energy security in the region.
Importance of the Yemen solar water tender
The UNHCR’s focus on solar-powered water systems is a crucial step in addressing the severe water crisis in Yemen. These projects are not isolated efforts but part of a larger trend of leveraging renewable energy for humanitarian and development purposes across the nation. Initiatives like the UAE-funded solar power stations and the large-scale Shabwa Solar Power project demonstrate a growing commitment to clean energy.
These systems not only provide immediate relief but also offer a long-term, cost-effective solution that improves living conditions and reduces environmental impact. The successful implementation of such projects contributes to Yemen’s overall renewable energy capacity, a topic explored further in our Yemen solar market report. Understanding the intricate solar panel manufacturing process reveals how technological advancements are making these life-saving applications possible.
To learn more about the technology behind these impactful projects, consider exploring our free e-course on solar panel manufacturing.
