- Rwanda has set a target of universal energy access by 2024.
- ARC Power will connect more than 3,000 people to electricity in Mozambique.
UK government-funded REPP (Renewable Energy Performance Platform) has attained another successful investment exit.
REPP has recovered its initial investment into mini-grid developed ARC (initiated in 2019). It will now continue supporting the company through a partial equity loan.
REPP’s convertible loans in 2019 and 2020 enabled ARC Power to pursue a large portfolio of solar mini-grids in Rwanda.
The early-stage financing helped the British-based developer finalise the project’s initial phase. They constructed four mini-grid generation systems serving six distribution networks. These networks now supply electricity to 14 villages in Bugesera and Gatsibo Districts. They have connected more than 10,000 people, 153 microbusinesses and three critical services to electricity for the first time.
Rwanda has set a target of universal energy access by 2024. ARC Power is about to collaborate with the Rwandan government to accelerate progress by building grid-connected mini-grids and standalone systems.
Outside of Rwanda, ARC Power recently secured the largest national concession to roll out mini-grids in Mozambique through its in-country partners. Construction is about to start on a mini-grid in Gaza Province. This will connect more than 3,000 people to electricity for the first time.
ARC Power secured existing financing from an existing funder for that project. The funding was mobilised directly from REPP’s equity conversion and the increased confidence this created in the mini-grid developer.