Expanding Access Through a Solar Energy Agreement
The Eritrean Ministry of Energy and Mines and Solarcentury, a subsidiary of BB Energy, have entered into a significant $20 million agreement aimed at enhancing solar energy infrastructure in the Western region of Eritrea. This project is set to bolster the nation’s renewable energy capacity, aligning with Eritrea’s ambitious aim of achieving universal electricity access by 2030.
According to Africa Press, the agreement was formalized in Asmara with signatures from Eritrean Minister of Energy and Mines, Mr. Debretsion Gebremichael, and Solarcentury CEO, Dr. Frans van den Bosch. The ceremony was graced by senior officials from both entities, alongside representatives from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and other development partners.
Solar Energy Agreement to Provide Electricity to Over 300,000 People
The project is slated for completion within a two-year timeline and involves the construction of two solar power plants, each having a 10 megawatt (MW) capacity. These plants will connect to the national grid, providing electricity to more than 300,000 residents in the towns of Barentu, Tesseney, and Agordat.
By establishing these solar plants, Eritrea will significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, which currently supply over 90% of the nation’s electricity. This endeavor is a crucial component of the Eritrean government’s National Electrification Program (NEP), which targets increasing renewable energy’s share to 50% by 2030.
Minister Debretsion Gebremichael emphasized the project’s significance for Eritrea’s energy security and economic growth, stating, “This project is a major milestone in our efforts to achieve universal access to electricity by 2030. It will not only provide clean and reliable energy to our people but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the Western region.”
Solarcentury’s Role in Africa’s Solar Energy Agreement
Solarcentury CEO Dr. Frans van den Bosch reiterated the firm’s dedication to supporting Eritrea’s renewable energy aspirations. “We are delighted to partner with the Eritrean government on this project, which will have a significant impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. Solar energy is a key enabler of sustainable development, and we are committed to helping Eritrea achieve its renewable energy targets.”
The African Development Bank (AfDB) is co-financing this project as part of its Desert to Power initiative, which aims to develop 10,000 MW of solar power across 11 Sahel region countries by 2025. The AfDB’s involvement highlights the critical role of renewable energy in tackling energy access and climate change challenges across Africa.
Eritrea’s Renewable Future Backed by Solar Energy Agreement
Eritrea’s dedication to renewable energy is also evident in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, targeting a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to business-as-usual levels. Expanding solar energy infrastructure plays a pivotal role in Eritrea’s strategy to meet this objective.
The solar project in Eritrea’s Western region is poised to transform the lives of hundreds of thousands by providing clean, reliable energy. This will enhance access to essential services, such as healthcare and education, spur economic growth, and contribute to the nation’s long-term development goals.
Eritrea’s collaboration with Solarcentury and the African Development Bank underscores the country’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development. As Eritrea advances in expanding its solar energy infrastructure, it continues to pave the way toward achieving universal electricity access by 2030.
