In line with Rwanda’s economic development targets, the country is projecting 100% access to electricity by 2024 as it is a cross-cutting driver of economic growth.
Given that the grid expansion will take time to reach all households, the energy sector strategic plan stipulates the use of off-grid solutions, including solar home systems and mini-grids as a viable alternative to grid connections.
Among the off-grid energy providers that have come on board include MySol which is under Engie Energy Access that revolutionized the whole industry and left many in awe as many have explained.
Nyirahategekimana Consolate 62, from Bikimba cell Runda sector in Kamonyi district, says ever since she acquired solar energy from MySol life has been rejuvenated as her family no longer experiences boredom they have experienced ever since their last born got married living the two at home alone.
“Whenever I finish my work including tending my banana plantation I sit and watch television as I rest and relax. This saves me boredom that had taken a toll on me, at night our home is lit thanks to MySol which provides affordable energy to us,” Nyirahategekimana says.
She adds that the most interesting and likable thing about solar energy is they are never worried about power blackouts which is normally the case with hydropower and some other energy sources.
Niyomugabo Jean de Dieu 25 a barber who operates his own hair salon says MySol aided him to create employment and managed to bring services closer to the people in the area.
“At peak, I earn over four thousand francs a day, this is much owing to how I have toiled in the past. This gives me hope and I know my future is secured as I even plan to expand my business by opening up more branches since the cost of operation is very low,” Niyomugabo said.
“ My power is on 24/7 meaning nobody ever comes looking for services and fails to get whether those coming for hair cuts or those who want to charge their phones,” he added, noting that “MySol has really been a game changer.”
Niyomugabo as a solon operator uses the MySol PayGo system which is for small businesses, it powers income-generating activities, including,4 Lights,2 hair clippers, a Phone charging station, and a 120W System with a 24” TV the package is also known as Basic Business.
Rwagaju Louis, head of Marketing at My Sol says that all customers including men, women, and youth are treated the same as other customers and are allowed to acquire the solars on hire purchase
“The people we work with include young people and women. We help them and show them what is best for them. W we allow them to pay installments hence making it more affordable, he says.
Serge Willson Muhizi from Energy Private Developers told journalists that the association is working night and day to help the government to get electricity to all Rwandans by 2024.
My Sol is under Engie Energy Access, provides electricity to homes using solar radiation, and has been working in Rwanda for 8 years since it arrived in 2014.
Engie Energy Access provides services to people living in off-grid areas using solar energy. Depending on the ability of the customer to receive radiation and their batteries, radios, flashlights, televisions and laptops.
According to Rwanda Energy Group 75% of Rwandans have access to electricity, with 23% using solar energy. My Sol has so far served 300,000 people across the country in over 60,000 households and over 400 schools.
Charles Ndushabandi