What is the Niger solar energy access project?

The World Bank-funded Niger Solar Electricity Access Project enables farmers to buy pumps. Based on its success, a broader $800-million solar energy project - Niger Accelerating Electricity Access (HASKÉ) - will integrate grid power, mini-grids, and off-grid solutions for electricity and clean cooking.

Why is solar energy important in Niger?

Increasing access to electricity through solar energy in Niger, especially in rural areas, is key to economic transformation and empowerment. Making use of the support and credit provided by our project, farmers really increase yields, rotate, and even diversify their crops, which is so important for food security.

Is solar energy a key to economic transformation in Niger?

“Increasing access to electricity through solar energy in Niger, especially in rural areas, is key to economic transformation and empowerment,” says Kwawu Mensan Gaba, Practice Manager at the World Bank.

Can solar-powered irrigation pumps transform Niger?

Solar-powered irrigation pumps and other appliances have demonstrated their power to transform Niger by increasing crop yields and production. “Previously, I irrigated only a tiny plot using diesel water pumps,” says Alzouma. “With solar irrigation, we now grow fruit trees, onions, tomatoes, and moringa.

How many solar pumps are there in Niger?

Four solar pump companies accounting for half of all pump sales in Niger have tapped into the credit line, bringing 800 solar pumps to Niger’s farms since 2017. NESAP has loaned more than $1.5 million to solar system importers, wholesalers, retailers, installers, and solar electricity service providers.

How can Niger balance its energy mix?

This transformative project, funded by the World Bank through the International Development Association (IDA), will enable Niger to better balance its energy mix, which is currently largely dominated by thermal energy. This initiative is particularly crucial for a country that frequently faces climatic shocks.