Will Snel build two solar power plants in Congo?

Congolese state-owned utility company Société Nationale d'Électricité (SNEL) has reportedly signed agreements to build two solar power plants.

Could solar power change energy consumption in Congo?

Solar power could change energy consumption in Congo. - The Loudima family in Congo have long been without electricity but they have found an environmental solution: solar power. In the remote districts of Pointe Noire, the Congolese start-up Hélios Électricité has installed a solar power plant.

How long does it take to build a solar plant in DRC?

Construction of the solar plant is expected to begin in 2023 and should be completed within 12 months. Once complete, it will be among the largest solar PV projects in the DRC. About IFC IFC—a member of the World Bank Group—is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets.

Will solar power power Congo's grid?

SNEL said that the solar facilities will have the capacity to supply 500GWh of clean energy to Congo’s grid, enough to meet the power requirements of more than 1.25 million people in the region.

Does the Democratic Republic of the Congo have reliable electricity?

Despite being one of Africa’s major copper producers and the world’s biggest cobalt miner, the Democratic Republic of the Congo lacks reliable access to electricity. According to Reuters, less than 10% of the country’s population of around 90 million has reliable access to power.

Why is the electrification rate so low in Congo?

According to the World Bank, nearly half of the Congolese population does not have access to electricity. Congo is one of the top five oil producers in Sub-Saharan Africa. But despite its rich energy resources, the electrification rate is low, especially in rural areas, mainly because of a lack of electricity infrastructure.