Rwanda: $840,000 grant for mini-grids

The African Development Bank (AfDB)-administered Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa has approved an $840,000 grant to support the introduction of renewable energy mini-grids. The project will be implemented by state utility Rwanda Energy Group and includes feasibility studies for 20 small hydropower sites along with a plan to encourage local private sector developers. “Given the low 5% rural access rate to electricity in Rwanda, combined with gradual population growth and significant untapped renewable energy potential, green mini-grids can provide robust and cost-effective energy access solutions,” said AfDB manager for environment and climate change Kurt Lonsway.