Does Eritrea have a solar farm?

Eritrea is lagging far behind in the electrification of its territory and is now turning to renewable energy. The government has launched the country's first solar farm, a 30-MW facility 30 km from the capital, Asmara.

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.

Where is Eritrea's first solar plant?

The government of Eritrea has received a $49.92 million grant from the African Development Bank to fund a 30 MW photovoltaic plant in the town of Dekemhare, 40 km southeast of the capital Asmara. It will be the country's first large-scale solar plant.

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 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.

Who is responsible for electricity supply in Eritrea?

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