Burundi 600MW parity photovoltaic project with energy storage

How much solar power is available in Burundi?

Hydropower: 1,700 MW of potential. 300 MW are economically possible (“Burundi” 2022). Solar: Average daily solar insolation is 4–5 kWh/m2/day, indicating strong solar potential for Burundi (“Energy Profile Burundi” n.d.). There is a growing number of households, businesses, schools, and health clinics using distributed, off-grid solar.

What is the primary energy supply in Burundi?

The remainder of the primary energy supply is from oil (“Burundi Energy Profile” 2021). However, a majority (98%) of the renewable energy supply in Burundi is bioenergy. The remainder of the renewable energy supply is hydroelectric, and solar power (“Burundi Energy Profile” 2021).

Who produces electricity in Burundi?

The main electricity producer is REGIDESO. The state-owned, vertically integrated company produces and operates over 97% of the electricity in Burundi and is responsible for production, transmission, distribution, and marketing of electricity (Mtoka 2019). It operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy and Mines.

Why does Burundi have a low per-capita electricity consumption?

One reason for low per-capita electricity consumption is the high tariff rate. Average power prices in Burundi are among the most expensive in the world, some sources citing the average tariff at USD 0.31/kWh (“REGIDESO to Nearly Triple Electricity Tariffs” 2017).

How many people in Burundi have electricity?

Approximately 7% of the population of Burundi has access to electricity. In rural areas, only 1% of the population has access. 49% of the urban population has access to electricity (“Burundi” 2022). In sub-Saharan Africa, the electrification rate is 26% on average (“Burundi” 2021). For those connected to electricity, quality is low.

How can Burundi benefit from the 2015 Electricity Act?

The 2015 Electricity Act enables foreign investments into the power sector. In addition, laws in Burundi allow tax benefits for energy investment and public-private partnership. However, without coordinated and focused efforts to direct those investments to impactful projects and initiatives, these strengths can become a missed opportunity.