Who can benefit from a new off-grid solar scheme in Benin?

Households, smallholders and entrepreneurs in remote locations across Benin will be able to access reliable and cheap electricity for the first time under a new off-grid solar scheme agreed between leading solar energy company ENGIE Energy Access and the European Investment Bank, one of the world’s largest financiers of renewable energy.

Who are the actors in the solar industry in Benin?

The Interprofessional Association for Renewable Energy Specialists (AISER - Bénin) is one of the main actors in the private sector for solar products and installations in Benin. It is an association for promotion and advocacy of renewable energy in Benin.

What is the energy sector in Benin like?

The energy sector in Benin is primarily reliant on biomass and imported petroleum products, with two percent of net energy consumption coming from electricity. The page below gives an overview of the energy sector in Benin and explains Power Africa's involvement in the country.

Will EIB support Engie to deploy off-grid solar power in Benin?

The new Benin cooperation follows EIB’s previous support for ENGIE to deploy off-grid solar power in Uganda. Benin is the sixth African country to benefit from the EIB’s streamlined support for African off-grid energy investment, following recent backing for projects in Mozambique, Uganda, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Comoros.

How will a European Investment Bank loan help Benin?

The European Investment Bank has agreed to provide a EUR 10 million loan to support the deployment of 107,000 high-quality solar home systems to Benin. This will open up access to clean energy for 643,000 people. The solar home systems include solar panels and battery storage to be sold on Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) contracts.

How many people in Benin rely on kerosene?

More than one million households are dependent on polluting and inefficient lighting by kerosene or candles, and increasingly expensive generators. Less than one in five people living in remote and rural communities across Benin have access to reliable electricity and only 10% of households are using off-grid solar products.