IRENA and ADFD to fund $25m PV projects in Mauritius and Rwanda
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) have announced that two solar PV projects – one located in Mauritius and the other in Rwanda – will be receiving $25 million in concessional loans from ADFD, one in Mauritius and one in Rwanda.
South Sudan could reap immediate benefits from solar– report
The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) has proposed a “green pivot” for South Sudan, where solar energy could help decouple economic growth from the geopolitics of oil and gas. In a special report, it has identified three opportunities where solar could yield benefits. A donor-led transition is required.
The weekend read: Empowerment and energy in India
Gender issues: Energy access can be transformed from an obstacle to an opportunity for women’s empowerment through the integration of women into the energy supply chain, as well as supportive policies. Organizations in India are working to expand energy access and empower women by boosting incomes, expanding skills and strengthening self-confidence. Over time, these efforts will enable a woman to have greater influence over herself, her family, and her community.
Uganda issues tender to bring off-grid solar to schools in seven regions
Uganda’s government seeks proposals to bring off-grid solar solutions to 89 post primary education institutions across the country.
Apis Partners provides Greenlight Planet with $60 million in funds
The U.S.-based off-grid specialist will use these financial resources to expand its business in Asia and Africa.
Switching to solar can boost education, prosperity for developing world, study finds
Research from the Overseas Development Institute estimates that children in developing world can gain 15 minutes extra study time a day if their homes switch from fossil fuel to solar, while households can enjoy savings of $10 per month.
BayWa r.e. connects pilot PV+storage project in Zambia
German PV developer BayWa r.e. has completed an 86 kW PV + storage project, which will power irrigation equipment for farmers in Zambia. The project marks Baywa r.e.’s first entrance on to the African continent, where the company says it has significant plans for expansion.
Off-grid solar has saved $5bn in energy spending since 2010, finds World Bank Group, GOGLA report
Despite 7% lower product sales, the latest global Off-grid solar market report from the World Bank Group reveals that market is thriving. However, industry needs to move quicker if it is to achieve global 2030 universal energy access goal.
SolarNow financing facility aiming to reach 70% of rural Uganda with off-grid systems
SolarNow and fellow investors SunFunder, Oikocredit and ResponsAbility Investments have announced a $6 million receivables financing facility for the installation of off-grid solar systems in the African nation of Uganda.
Remote community in Guyana receives 400 kWp solar+storage system from Meeco
The off-grid ground-mounted solar and battery project will be carried out by Meeco and Oursun, providing remote regions of Guyana such as Mabaruma with clean energy, while reducing their fossil fuel consumption.
