22 Sep
Uncategorized

Over 400,000 Homes To Benefit From Subsidised Solar Systems

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The Government of Rwanda through BRD in collaboration with the World Bank, and Swedish International cooperation agency SIDA ,have launched a subsidy window and Guarantee 

framework to provide credit facilities to SACCO’s, Banks and microfinance institutions that will lend to households for off grid connections.

The World Bank approved a U$15million subsidy that is expected to benefit 182.927 low income households living in off-grid areas; Whereas Swedish International cooperation agency SIDA disbursed U$20 million to spur the implementation of the scheme.

“The scheme does not cover 100% subsidy rather the beneficiaries are expected to contribute 

in the form of cash or pay as you go payments, with participating companies that will channel 

the subsidy to beneficiary households,” said Kampeta Sayinzoga the BRD CEO.

“The subsidy will base on Ubudehe categories where a beneficiary in category 1 of Ubudehe, will have a 90% percentage subsidy on a solar home system(SINOWARE) under 120USD, 70% on the second category and 45% on the third category”.

She added affordability has been a serious challenge in off-grid sector where majority of the households living in none –electrified areas cannot afford solar home systems(SunAceII Family) even if it is provided in credit. A factor to give a hand through off grid participating solar companies.

Out of 1.3bn USD to be disbursed only 6% of the funds have been disbursed hence BRD calling banks, solar companies Sacco’s to apply for participation until March 2021.

Eligible Companies will not exceed 1million USD for the 3years of implementation of the projects and they have to fulfil criteria of eligibility including; Having an agreement with EDCL; Provide warranty for solar system services and should have a recycling capacity among others.

These companies who will install SHS to households will also need an appraisal report from BRD and presents it for approval, BRD will then will request for a no objection from the world bank and then signs a subsidy agreement with the solar companies.