Is off-grid solar a viable solution for Madagascar?

At present around a quarter of the population in Madagascar has access to electricity. Off-grid solar technology has proven to be a fast and effective solution to accelerate economic growth and sustainable development in regions where connection to the grid is still challenging.

How can off-grid energy access help Madagascar?

Off-grid energy access. Image source SNV A new collective investment of $20.5 million into off-grid solar technology will help bring clean and affordable energy to more than 120 villages in Madagascar.

How will Welight's new solar mini-grids benefit Madagascar?

The investment will enable WeLight to build and develop solar mini-grids to supply electricity to over 120 villages in Madagascar which currently have no access to the national electricity grid. The new mini-grids will provide residents in off-grid rural villages access to clean and affordable energy.

Does EIB support off-grid solar energy in Madagascar?

EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle explained that the project continues their longstanding backing of off-grid solar energy in rural Africa, following successful projects in Benin, Chad, the Comoro Islands, Mozambique and Uganda. “I am very happy that we can now implement such a project in Madagascar.

Will Welight Madagascar improve rural electrification?

Romain de Villeneuve, Chief Executive Officer of WeLight Madagascar, said this new project will significantly improve rural electrification in Madagascar. “It will also positively impact hundreds of thousands of people, greatly enhancing living standards, the local economy and people’s well-being.

How does a mini-grid work?

Made up of a solar power plant and energy storage system, a distribution line and a meter for each customer, a mini-grid can supply electricity 24 hours a day, seven days a week.