Solar photovoltaic panels in Eritrea

Where is the 30 MW solar plant being developed in Eritrea?

The African Development Fund (ADF) is helping Eritrea's government to develop a 30 MW solar plant in Dekemhare, in the central part of the African country. It has launched a tender to seek consultants for the project.

Does Eritrea have solar power?

Eritrea’s weather, characterized by long sunny days throughout the year, makes it suitable for harnessing solar power. Data from the wind and solar monitoring stations installed in many parts of Eritrea show that the country has a great potential, around 6 kwh/m2 of solar energy.

What are the benefits of solar energy in Eritrea?

The government of Eritrea has been making efforts to promote the use of alternative sources of energy, especially solar energy, to mitigate the problems associated with the use of fossil fuel. A major benefit of solar energy is that it does not pollute the environment and saves money in the long run even if its installation cost is quite high.

What is Eritrea's installed PV capacity?

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Eritrea had just 24 MW of installed PV capacity at the end of 2021.

What is Eritrea's main source of energy?

Eritrea’s major source of energy is petroleum, which drains the foreign currency reserves of the country and is globally a major cause of pollution. The government of Eritrea has been making efforts to promote the use of alternative sources of energy, especially solar energy, to mitigate the problems associated with the use of fossil fuel.

What is the peak demand for electricity in Eritrea?

Eritrea experiences inadequate, unreliable, expensive and polluting electricity supply. The available capacity is 35 MW for a peak demand of about 70 MW. The Ministry of Energy and Mines is responsible for its implementation.