Is Eritrea a model for African rural electrification?

UNDP Eritrea Described as a model for African rural electrification, Eritrea will soon launch two solar hybrid power systems that will provide grid quality electricity to 40,000 people and businesses in the towns of Areza and Maidma where there is no grid power at all.

Does Eritrea have solar power?

Eritrea’s weather, characterized by long sunny days throughout the year, makes it suitable for harnessing solar power. Data from the wind and solar monitoring stations installed in many parts of Eritrea show that the country has a great potential, around 6 kwh/m2 of solar energy.

What is solar hybrid power in Areza & maidma?

The two power plants, one in Areza (1.5 acres) and another in Maidma (2.5 acres), showcase the use of solar hybrid power systems to provide continuous power supply to rural communities in those areas.

What are the benefits of solar energy in Eritrea?

The government of Eritrea has been making efforts to promote the use of alternative sources of energy, especially solar energy, to mitigate the problems associated with the use of fossil fuel. A major benefit of solar energy is that it does not pollute the environment and saves money in the long run even if its installation cost is quite high.

How much money does the EU spend on a mini-grid Solar System?

The US$6.56 million project is primarily financed by the EU through the ACP EU Energy Facility and the UNDP and Eritrea are contributing a little under €2 million (US$2.3 million) each. The two mini-grid hybrid solar systems will be powered by solar PV and lithium-ion batteries.

What is Eritrea's main source of energy?

Eritrea’s major source of energy is petroleum, which drains the foreign currency reserves of the country and is globally a major cause of pollution. The government of Eritrea has been making efforts to promote the use of alternative sources of energy, especially solar energy, to mitigate the problems associated with the use of fossil fuel.