Rwanda is exploring the potential of generating up to 200 megawatts (MW) of electricity from solar energy, the Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA) announced on June 25, during the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearings.

The initiative is still in its early stages, with feasibility studies underway to determine where the solar infrastructure will be installed, how it will connect to the national grid, and the overall viability of the project, according to officials.

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According to Fidele Abimana, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Infrastructure, the government is currently piloting a detailed study to assess the technical and geographical requirements of the ambitious project.

"We are still piloting a study to know where the solar panels will be placed and how they will be linked to the national electricity grid. Potentially, we believe it can be done, but the study will confirm,” Abimana said.

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The study will examine various types of solar panel installations, including those that float on water bodies and those installed on land. The government aims to avoid displacing residents or interfering with agricultural activities, and will therefore prioritise underutilised land for the project.

"We need to find land that is not commonly used, so that we don’t disrupt people’s lives, farming, or settlements,” he noted.

While the study is still ongoing, officials acknowledge that the timeline and financial investment required are yet to be determined. However, they are optimistic, given Rwanda’s abundant sunlight throughout the year.

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"We know solar energy is possible because we have the sun. What remains is to determine how much land, time, and technology we need.”

The project also aims to complement the country’s existing hydropower capacity and provide a cost-effective alternative in the long run.

"We already have hydropower, and now we want to explore solar to see which source is more affordable,” said Abimana.

A comprehensive report from the ongoing feasibility study conducted in partnership with the World Bank is expected by December this year.

The report will offer clearer insights into the project's scope, budget, and timeline, and potentially mark the beginning of Rwanda’s largest solar power rollout to date.

The Permanent Secretary maintained that if successful, the 200MW solar project could significantly enhance Rwanda’s energy security, reduce dependence on hydro and fossil fuels, and support the country's sustainable development goals.