Rwanda has outlined plans to build a solar energy pipeline of over 900 megawatts, covering utility scale projects, rooftop systems, off grid solutions, and agricultural applications, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure.
The country has signed a three year partnership with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to accelerate solar development, improve energy access, and attract investment.
The framework, signed in Kigali on May 8, focuses on solarising agriculture, expanding access, promoting rooftop solar, strengthening skills, and improving financing and policy support. It is also expected to unlock private sector investment across the solar value chain.
Minister of Infrastructure, Hon. Jimmy Gasore, said solar energy is a central pillar of Rwanda’s development strategy, not just a supporting component.
The partnership includes plans to establish a Solar Technology Application Resource Centre (STAR C) at the University of Rwanda to train engineers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, while supporting research and innovation.About 40 percent of the planned capacity will come from decentralised systems such as rooftop solar and agricultural applications. The initiative also aims to speed up project delivery, mobilise financing, and attract private investors.
To ensure implementation, Rwanda and ISA will set up a Technical Working Group and a Ministerial Steering Committee to monitor progress and coordinate activities.
Key components include a national rooftop solar programme for homes, industries, and public institutions, as well as clean cooking solutions for schools and facilities.
The agreement also covers solar powered electric vehicle charging infrastructure as part of Rwanda’s e mobility strategy.
A flagship programme is expected to benefit at least 500,000 people through solar powered solutions including irrigation, cold storage, agro processing, and rural enterprises.
Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Hon. Telesphore Ndabamenye, said the project will improve irrigation, especially for hillside farming, while boosting livestock water supply and reducing post-harvest losses.