Electricity is a vital component of infrastructure, playing a key role in enabling job creation and accelerating economic development. However, as global population and industrial activities grow, so do energy demands, contributing to rising temperatures worldwide.
Although Rwanda is not among the hottest countries, its climate is generally warm, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 26°C during the rainy season and between 27°C and 30°C in the Eastern Province during the dry season.
Fidèle Abimana, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, informed the parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that Rwanda plans to generate up to 200 megawatts of electricity from solar energy.
In an interview with IGIHE, Abimana confirmed that Rwanda has high solar potential, and initial discussions have begun to determine how this potential can be harnessed.
'The process begins with a study… You need to identify land where solar panels will be installed and assess how the solar power can be integrated into the existing grid. The feasibility study will show us if achieving 200 megawatts is possible,' he explained.
'It's a study that is about to be conducted, but based on preliminary assessments, it seems that the 200 megawatts could be achievable. However, this will be confirmed by the feasibility study, which will indicate where to install the solar panels, how much electricity they can generate, some are placed over water, others on land. When all these factors are considered together, the study will clearly show us how much electricity we can obtain, how we'll use it, and what will be required to make it work,' he added.
While the Eastern Province receives a lot of sunlight, Abimana did not confirm whether this would be the location for the solar panels.
'We asked the consultants to look for underutilized or idle land, rather than using farmland or residential areas. Rwanda has some steep and less fertile land, and if such areas are suitable, we'll prioritize those to avoid disrupting agriculture and settlements.'
He also mentioned that solar panels might even be installed on water surfaces such as the Nyabarongo River using floating solar technology, although such decisions will depend on the final feasibility report.
Abimana emphasized that Rwanda's electricity demand is increasing every year, requiring more power generation capacity.
'As our energy needs grow annually, the additional 200 megawatts would not only meet domestic demand but could also allow us to export surplus power.'
Rwanda already has major power generation projects underway, including Nyabarongo II and Ruzizi III, both expected to significantly increase national electricity output.
The preliminary feasibility study for the solar power project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
'We've started initial discussions with the World Bank, which will help fund the study. By December 2025, we should have a baseline report. By next year [2026], we'll have a clear direction for solar energy generation.'
According to the National Energy Policy released in February 2025, Rwanda's total installed electricity generation capacity stands at 406.4 megawatts.
Findings from the EICV7 household survey show that 72% of Rwandan households have access to electricity, with 22% relying on off-grid solar solutions.
This new solar energy project could be a game-changer for Rwanda's sustainability ambitions and energy independence.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-eyes-200mw-solar-project-to-power-a-greener-future
