The Rwandan government has signed an agreement with GigaWatt Global Rwanda to develop a grid-level solar electric generating plant
The Rwandan minister of state in charge of energy and water, Emma Françoise Isumbingabo said, “Generation and provision of electricity to all Rwandans is a priority for the government of Rwanda. This initiative to produce 8.5MW of clean energy is an important addition towards closing our current energy gap."
According to the agreement, GigaWatt Global Rwanda will design, finance, maintain and operate the 8.5MW solar electric generating plant at Agahozo Shalom Youth Village in the Rwamagana district. The estimated value of the project has been calculated to be US$23mn.
The agreement has outlined the main roles and responsibilities of both the investor and the government with respect to the energy project. A feasibility study has already been completed and the plant will be expected to be operational in June 2014.
Rwanda Development Board acting chief operating officer Tony Nsanganira said, “Energy is key in driving Rwanda’s economic development and specifically to reach our targets as set in the Second Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy of Rwanda. We welcome investors like GigaWatt Global as this partnership will benefit Rwandans directly as well as contribute to Rwanda’s competitiveness."
