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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

How is electricity generated in Eritrea?

Eritrea's NDCs were developed in 2018. The majority of electricity generated in the country is from imported fossil fuels. In 2019, the electrification rate in rural areas of Eritrea was only 37%, compared to 76% in urban areas. Some projects financed by international donors are aimed at increasing these rates.