- Rwanda targets full electricity access by 2030, with 82% of households already connected.
- Under its power strategy, the country plans to add 1,500 MW of solar capacity by 2050.
Rwanda is making decisive progress under Rwanda’s Solar Investment Plan to bring electricity to every home by 2030. The government plans to invest $16 billion in solar energy to become one of Africa’s clean energy leaders.
Currently, 82% of Rwandan households have access to electricity. About 57% depend on the national grid, while 25% use off-grid systems powered mainly by solar. However, solar energy still contributes only 1% of Rwanda’s 406-megawatt installed capacity. Hydropower dominates with 39%, leaving the country vulnerable to droughts and unpredictable rainfall.
Rwanda’s government has launched a long-term plan to diversify its energy mix to correct this imbalance. Under the Least Cost Power Development Plan (2024–2050), it intends to install 1,500 MW of solar capacity with battery storage. This effort should strengthen energy security and reduce reliance on hydropower.
Despite the progress, financing remains a significant challenge. The government projects that $3.6 billion will be needed by 2035 to meet growing demand. Between 2035 and 2050, energy generation costs could reach $38 billion, with solar projects requiring $16 billion.
The Rwanda Energy Group (REG) manages the power sector through two primary subsidiaries. The Electricity Utility Corporation Limited (EUCL) oversees daily operations, while the Energy Development Corporation Limited (EDCL) handles planning and electrification.
Private investors participate through independent power producer models, with EUCL as the sole off-taker. Although Rwanda offers tax incentives, experts insist that stable policies and transparent tariffs are vital for investor confidence. Consequently, the government plans to standardise power purchase agreements and expand feed-in tariffs to attract more investment.
As African countries compete to expand clean and affordable energy access, Rwanda’s Solar Investment Plan could emerge as a sustainable electrification model if financing and policy reforms keep pace with ambition.