Private sector players in Rwanda’s energy sector are exploring the potential of plants as a source of renewable energy, in line with the country’s ambition to diversify its clean energy mix and meet rising demand. Speaking at the opening of the 5th Edition of the Renewable Energy for Sustainable Growth Conference and Exhibition, held on September 9 in Kigali during Energy Week, Ivan Twagirashema, Chairperson of Energy Private Developers, said the sector is pushing innovation to address modern energy needs. ALSO READ: How will 22% uptake of improved cookstoves be attained? “With today’s advancements from artificial intelligence and robotics to drones energy is indispensable. In some countries, sugarcane and other plants are already used to generate fuel for vehicles, and that is something we are also considering,” Twagirashema said. He emphasised that while the government plays a regulatory role, it is the private sector that is driving investments in renewable energy, from hydropower and solar to emerging plant-based fuel sources. State Minister Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye noted that Rwanda has made progress in expanding renewable capacity but must accelerate efforts to meet long-term targets. ALSO READ: Renewable energy’s share in Rwanda reaches 52% “So far, we have an installed capacity of over 400MW. Our ambition is to grow this to more than 3GW by 2050, so that we can consistently meet the country’s development needs,” he said. Uwihanganye pointed out that the cost of renewable technologies continues to decline. “At first, solar energy was expensive, but today it is more affordable as systems have improved. That is why we are encouraging the public to adopt rooftop solar. The same trend applies to hydropower and other sources.” He acknowledged challenges such as intermittency, solar not being available at night, but highlighted that advances in storage technologies are helping to bridge the gap. ALSO READ: How Rwanda can attract more renewable energy investments Climate action lens Faustin Vuningoma, Coordinator of the Rwanda Climate Change and Development Network (RCCDN), underlined the role of renewables in addressing climate change. “Fossil fuels like coal and petroleum are the main drivers of global warming. Even though Rwanda is not highly industrialised, we are still affected. Shifting to renewable energy is not just necessary; it positions us as an example for Africa and the world,” he said. He also urged developed nations to take the lead. “These countries have historically relied on fossil fuels and contributed most to pollution, yet they remain hesitant to embrace renewables. They must show more commitment.” As Rwanda’s energy sector prioritises innovation and collaboration, plant-based fuels are emerging as one of the promising frontiers in the country’s pursuit of sustainable growth.
