Rwanda to see 'improved energy infrastructure'

9 February 2011

An energy infrastructure scheme in Rwanda has received the backing of the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The KivuWatt project, which will see methane gas extracted from Lake Kivu and then used in an offshore power plant, is to benefit from a $25 million (£15 million) loan.

It is expected that once the first phase is completed, some 25MW will be created, with the net output rising to 75MW after phase two is finished.

The AfDB stated: "The KivuWatt project creates a low cost energy solution, which will help Rwanda meet its domestic energy requirements while reducing reliance on expensive imports from neighbouring countries."

As well as lowering the price of energy, the development will also see 250 jobs created, with 200 of them being sourced locally.

There will also be exporting potential for Rwanda to Uganda should the project reach its full potential, while the scheme falls into the AfDB's Rwanda Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy.
 

Category: Energy