Expertise: water resources
Expertise Group: Agriculture/Rural Development
Consultant Source: International
TOR Keywords: water resources, eco-compensation
Objective and Purpose of the Assignment
The expert will support in the implementation of TA activities which will assist the National
Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) in developing eco-compensation mechanisms for watershed
sustainability in Gansu and Fujian Provinces. The eco-compensation mechanism would be targeted at
drinking water to the designated provinces. In addition, the TA will focus on potential options to
sustainably structure the payments mechanisms including with private sector participation and use of
capital market instruments. The governance structure of the water fund would also be examined. Finally,
the eco-compensation framework and the water fund will include gender elements to ensure gender equity
in compensation payments and gender and climate justice.
Scope of Work
The consultant will develop a business plan for water fund(s) including funding and investment options
for long-term sustainability. The specialists will also provide guidance in the internal governance
framework for the water fund(s) to ensure alignment of incentives with the long-term sustainability of
water fund mechanisms.
Detailed Tasks and/or Expected Output
(i) study international experiences on sustainable water fund options;
(ii) examine options for water find investments including in equity and public-private partnership type
arrangements;
(iii) suggest applicability of use of bond instruments and full and partial guarantees;
(iv) include analysis on potential for use of sovereign funds to partially secure commercial borrowings;
(v) develop financial model and business plan and funds leveraging potential for water funds;
(vi) provide guidance on use of water fund compensation payments in income generation activities;
(vii) provide guidance on internal governance structure to enhance functionality of water funds;
(viii) undertake policy dialogue with NDRC and other stakeholders on lessons and applicability of said
lessons in designated provinces;
(ix) coordinate with eco-compensation specialist to integrate eco-compensation framework in the water
fund structure; and
(x) participate in knowledge workshops and contribute to workshop proceedings.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Master’s Degree or post-graduate degree in Engineering, Economics, environmental science, Urban
Planning, water resource management, or related disciplines. A university degree in water resources,
hydrology, agricultural or civil engineering, preferably with complementary training/work experience in
other subject areas in rural development or other related fields. International experience working in
development in several countries or with other international organization is desired.
Minimum General Experience: 10 Years
Minimum Specific Experience (relevant to assignment): 7 Years
