The Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project is a transformative initiative funded by the African Development Bank, aimed at enhancing the energy infrastructure in Eritrea. It will provide electricity to over 235,000 individuals across three regions, supporting local economies and schools. The project aligns with national strategies for sustainable development and seeks to overcome historical socioeconomic challenges.
The African Development Bank Group, in partnership with the government of Eritrea, is set to transform the nation’s energy sector. A significant agreement was established on March 10, 2025, to fund the Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project, representing a pivotal step towards sustainable energy development in the region.
This agreement, with a funding value of $19.5 million from the Bank Group’s Transitional Support Facility (TSF), aims to establish mini-grids that will generate 12 MW of electricity across three regions: Teseney (6 MW), Kerekebet (3 MW), and Barentu (3 MW). The initiative will enhance energy access for more than 235,000 Eritreans, with particular attention to women and youth, comprising 20% of the beneficiaries.
The implementation of the project will be overseen by the Eritrean Ministry of Energy along with the Eritrea Electricity Corporation (EEC) and local enterprises, guided by a technical consulting firm. It is designed to benefit households, small-scale agricultural operations, agro-processing zones, and water supply systems, while also supporting over 160 schools and 90 health centers in the Gash Barka region.
To bolster sustainability and local capacity, the project will provide training and equipment to 25 local companies, thereby fostering local economic growth and ensuring the maintenance of the energy infrastructure. This strategic focus enhances the viability of the established energy systems.
The Desert to Power initiative aligns with the African Development Bank’s Interim Country Strategy Paper for Eritrea, covering the period from 2022 to 2024. It emphasizes the necessity for sustainable infrastructure to support agricultural value chains and economic diversification, in line with Eritrea’s National Energy Policy, which envisions a 20% contribution of renewable energy to electric power by 2030.
Although Eritrea has experienced challenges in socioeconomic development due to historical conflicts and economic vulnerabilities, recent peace agreements and renewed regional cooperation offer promising opportunities for change. The Desert to Power Project symbolizes a crucial chance to remove infrastructural constraints and drive comprehensive economic growth.
In conclusion, the Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project emerges as a pivotal endeavor in addressing energy demands while fostering sustainable development. By leveraging renewable energy, this project not only responds to current energy requirements but also supports the foundation for a more diverse and resilient economy in Eritrea.
The Desert to Power Eritrea 12 MW Mini Grid Project marks a significant advancement in the country’s energy sector, enhancing access for thousands. With a focus on sustainability and local capacity-building, the initiative aligns with national energy policies, promoting economic diversification and resilience amidst historical challenges. This project represents a vital opportunity for Eritrea to achieve energy independence and stimulate economic growth through renewable resources.
Original Source: fasi.eu
