Desert to Power Project: Transforming Eritrea’s Energy Landscape
The African Development Bank and the Eritrean government have launched the Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project, a $19.5 million initiative aimed at improving energy access for over 235,000 citizens. By establishing mini-grids in three regions, the project is set to enhance local economies while supporting sustainable energy goals, aligning with national policies for electrification and economic diversification.
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and the Eritrean government have initiated a transformative project to enhance energy infrastructure in Eritrea. On March 10, 2025, a significant agreement was signed to fund the Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project. This initiative signifies a crucial advancement towards sustainable energy development in the region.
With a funding value of $19.5 million from the Bank Group’s Transitional Support Facility (TSF), the project aims to establish mini-grids generating a total of 12 MW of electricity across three regions: Teseney (6 MW), Kerekebet (3 MW), and Barentu (3 MW). It is expected to greatly improve energy access for over 235,000 Eritreans, of whom 20% will be women and youth.
The Eritrean Ministry of Energy, along with the Eritrea Electricity Corporation (EEC) and local companies, will implement the project with support from a technical consulting firm. This initiative will benefit residential households, small farms, agro-processing areas, and water supply systems. Moreover, it is set to support 160 schools and 90 health centers in the Gash Barka region.
To ensure sustainability and enhance local capacities, training and equipment will be provided to 25 local companies. This strategy not only promotes economic growth locally but also fosters the long-term maintenance and resilience of energy infrastructure.
The project aligns with the African Development Bank’s Interim Country Strategy Paper 2022-2024 for Eritrea, focusing on developing sustainable infrastructure to boost agricultural value chains and diversify the economy. Furthermore, it supports the 2018 Eritrean National Energy Policy, which aims to raise electrification rates and achieve a 20% contribution from renewable energy to the electricity supply by 2030.
Eritrea has historically faced socio-economic challenges due to conflict and vulnerabilities. However, recent peace agreements and regional cooperative efforts have paved the way for growth and stability. The Desert to Power initiative offers a pivotal opportunity to address critical infrastructure limitations and stimulate economic transformation.
The Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project is not merely an energy venture; it stands as a symbol of hope for sustainable development and economic resilience in Eritrea. By utilizing renewable energy, the project addresses urgent energy requirements and sets the stage for a more diversified and prosperous economy.
The Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project represents a significant investment in the country’s energy infrastructure, promising improved access to electricity for thousands of citizens. Through collaboration with local entities and emphasis on sustainability, this initiative aligns with national policies aimed at economic diversification and increased electrification. Thus, it embodies a hopeful prospect for Eritrea’s socio-economic transformation.
Original Source: fasi.eu
