This program has ended
Aim
To contribute to the attainment of the SE4ALL goal that aims to ensure universal access to modern energy services, and enhancing the socio economic wellbeing of 30 000 rural men and women in two countries through access to modern energy.
Where
Malawi, Zimbabwe
Why
More than 1 billion people lack access to sustainable energy services the world over. Productive end use of energy services has proved to enhance livelihoods. Zimbabwe has a 45% electrification rate while Malawi has a 9% rate. Most rural communities in these two countries use unsustainable energy sources for their daily activities. This makes the cost of livelihood high and environmental and health issues also high. Access to clean and sustainable energy is essential is saving the environment, reducing to cost of livelihoods and improving health condition for the poor.
How
Sustainable Energy for Rural Communities works to create an enabling environment in the two countries that will allow public and private sector energy actors to engage in the rural electrification market. The project will demonstrate to government and private sector the efficient use of solar energy for productive end use and social development by setting up 5 solar powered mini grid that supply energy to irrigation schemes, business centers, schools and clinics as well as households. The project will also empower entrepreneurs running solar powered businesses in rural settings (Energy Kiosks).
Results so far
By 2018, SE4RC had set up 5 solar power mini grids in 5 different communities with a total power output of 185Kw and a total of 6 standalone solar powered kiosks with a total power output of 14KW. The project has provided electricity for water pumping to 6 irrigation schemes, electricity to 5 schools, 5 clinics, 15 business shops and more than 10 households as the numbers keep growing.
Period and budget
2015-2019, € 7.13 million
Funding Partner
European Union (donor)
Implementing Partners
Practical Action, CARD, Environment Africa, SNV, Dabane Trust
