Is there a market for solar energy in Rwanda?

Only few companies in Rwanda are active in the field of solar energy. They focus mainly on the market for larger systems for public institutions, e.g. hospitals, schools etc through public tenders. In addition they and others are also trying to sell solar home systems but the market for solar lanterns and small home systems is still in its infancy.

Is Rwanda a significant source of solar energy?

Rwanda has a moderate source of solar energy, with an average solar radiation of 4 – 6 kWh per square meter per day. It has had a useful experience with the 250 kW Kigali solar project and solar water heaters. However, Rwanda's energy mix is currently dominated by biomass, which accounts for about 85% of primary energy use.

How many solar home systems are there in Rwanda?

Approximately 50,000 solar home systems have been installed in Rwanda over the last 3 years.

How much electricity does Rwanda have in 2021?

By May 2021, Rwanda’s generation capacity installed is currently 238.052MW. 1,752,345 households have been connected to electricity where 1,278,601 households are on grid and 473,744 households connected to Off-grid mainly solar. Solar energy is a promising solution to meet the demand for rural households’ electricity services in remote locations.

What percentage of Rwandan households access electricity through off-grid systems?

As of May 2021, 16 % of Rwandan households are accessing electricity through off-grid systems, mainly solar. The Energy sector strategic plan underscores the universal access to electricity by 2024 with 48% of the households connected through off-grid power systems.

Is solar energy a viable solution for rural households?

Solar energy is a promising solution to meet the demand for rural households’ electricity services in remote locations. As of May 2021, 16 % of Rwandan households are accessing electricity through off-grid systems, mainly solar.