Home energy storage project financing options in Burundi 2030

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 can a Burundi Energy Center do?

For example, such a center in Burundi could focus on funding and implementing solar-plus-storage technologies for rural and remote households. The 2015 Electricity Act enables foreign investments into the power sector. In addition, laws in Burundi allow tax benefits for energy investment and public-private partnership.

Will foreign investment weaken Burundi's self-sufficiency?

The 2015 Electricity Act enables foreign investments in the power sector. Laws are in place to allow tax benefits for energy investment and public private partnerships. These laws can help accelerate investment in renewable energy infrastructure. However, direct foreign investment may weaken Burundi’s jurisdiction and self-sufficiency.

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).

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).