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).

Where is a solar power station located in Burundi?

The power station is located in the settlement of Mubuga, in the Gitega Province of Burundi, approximately 15.2 kilometres (9 mi), northeast of the city of Gitega, the political capital of that country. This power station is the first grid-connected solar project developed by an IPP in Burundi.

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.

How much does electricity cost in Burundi?

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 were hired to operate Burundi's solar power station?

Another estimated 25-50 people were hired to operate the power station. In May 2023, Evariste Ndayishimiye, the president of Burundi toured the solar farm and personally gave his approval for the power station's capacity to be expanded to 15 megawatts.