Page 9 - respond-cop31

Smart Solar Technologies takes confident
steps to accelerate carbon neutrality through
innovation and science, with its bold mission
for a sustainable future. Operating two
production facilities in Türkiye, the company
has an annual total solar panel production
capacity of 2,4 GW, solar cell production
capacity of 2,2 GW, and wafer production
capacity of 1,5 GW, serving hundreds of
customers in over 20 countries.

At Smart Solar Technologies, our manufacturing needed for electrification. Climate-finance
experience in Türkiye informs how we approach institutions should explicitly consider this
these challenges. Investing in solar cells alongside enabling role, alongside jobs, skills, environmental
modules has reinforced our conviction that the performance and supply-chain resilience.
transition requires industrial capability as well as
generation capacity. Financing frameworks should These priorities give COP31 a concrete agenda.
recognise the connection between the two. Governments can provide predictable investment
frameworks. Development banks can share
Our planned €122 million solar cell and module risks that private lenders cannot readily absorb.
investment in Bulgaria brings this argument into a Manufacturers must bring credible projects,
European context. Expected to create more than transparent operations and measurable
800 jobs in the Stara Zagora region, the project commitments.
would connect cross-border investment with
industrial diversification in a coal region. Türkiye can contribute the perspective of an
emerging economy building industrial capacity
For me, this is a practical expression of a just and investing internationally. We should use that
transition: creating opportunities for workers and perspective to connect policy discussions with
regions through investment in the industries that investment decisions.
will supply tomorrow’s energy system. It also shows
why capital should be able to follow credible I would judge progress by projects reaching
industrial projects across borders. financial close, factories entering production and
people gaining skilled employment. Finance Without
Three Priorities for Antalya Borders must become a practical investment
First, match finance to investment horizons. framework that delivers those outcomes.
Development banks and commercial lenders
should work together on longer maturities,
guarantees and instruments that manage
currency and political risk. These tools should help
viable projects reach financial close on terms that
reflect their operating lives.

Second, reduce duplication without lowering
standards. Investors need reliable environmental
and social information. Businesses need clarity
about what qualifies for support. Greater
compatibility between taxonomies, reporting
requirements and due-diligence processes would
help projects access international capital while
preserving accountability.

Third, recognise clean-technology manufacturing
as strategic climate infrastructure. Financing a
solar factory supports the supply of equipment

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