1,8m to benefit from rural home solar scheme

ABOUT 1,8 million rural households are set to get electricity under the national solar

home system programme to be implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency

(REA).The initiative is aimed at bringing clean energy to remote communities across the country.In an interview with The Sunday Mail, REA spokesperson Mr Johannes Nyamayedenga said the project will have a significant impact on rural livelihoods.

“We are targeting about 1,8 million people who live in the rural areas of Zimbabwe,”said Mr Nyamayedenga.

“We are now sending questionnaires and catalogues of solar plants to gather

information about the specific needs of our communities.”

The solar home systems will vary in size and capacity, catering for various household

needs.“They can range from, let’s say, two lights up to a big solar system, which can power a refrigerator, a stove, an iron, as well as entertainment, radio and television.”

The REA board has reportedly approved the programme and will offer subsidies to

beneficiaries. Treasury will provide part of the funding for the initiative.

The programme will also be financed through the Rural Electrification Fund (REF), a

statutory body established in 2002 to facilitate the expansion of electricity access in

rural areas.