Burundi Wind Solar and Energy Storage Project

Does Burundi have solar power?

However, solar makes up a small fraction of energy supplied in Burundi due to its relatively low installed capacity of 5 MW (“Burundi Energy Profile” 2021).Solar made up 5% of all installed capacity in 2020, generating a total of 8 GWh of electricity for the year, which accounted for 2% of annual electricity generation in Burundi.

Which region of Burundi has a high potential for wind energy harvesting?

Another study found that the Bujumbura region has a high potential for wind energy harvesting (Placide, Lollchund, and Dalso 2021). Geothermal: According to the Burundi Ministry for Energy and Mines, the Rift Valley region of the country is likely to have geothermal potential (Manirakiza 2012).

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).

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.

What is the average wind speed in Burundi?

Wind: The mean wind speed in Burundi is 4–6 m/s (“Energy Profile Burundi” n.d.). Small wind turbines need an average wind speed at least 4 m/s, meaning Burundi’s wind could support electricity generation (“Wind Explained” 2022). One study found that total wind power potential in the country is 12–15 TWh per year (Mentis 2013).

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.