Eritrea, AfDB Back 30MW Solar Push

Key Figures & Findings: The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a $49.92 million grant to finance Eritrea’s Dekemhare 30 MW solar photovoltaic power plant project. The funding includes $19.5 million from the African Development Fund and $30.42 million from the Transition Support Facility. The project will integrate a 15 MW/30 MWh battery storage system and connect to Eritrea’s national grid via a 66 kV transmission line. The initiative is part of the country's Vision 2030 plan, targeting a 20% renewable energy share and advancing agricultural and food security goals. The Ministry of Energy and Mines will oversee the project’s implementation, focusing heavily on technical assistance, capacity building, and sector sustainability.

Statistics & Insights: The solar plant is expected to generate 365 GWh annually, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 42,910 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent each year. The share of renewable energy in Eritrea’s energy mix is projected to jump from 3% to 23% once the project is completed.

Future Implications: If delivered as planned by 2026, the Dekemhare project could significantly reduce Eritrea’s reliance on costly fossil fuels, lower the national electricity cost to 18.5 US cents per kWh, and boost economic opportunities through improved power supply. Longer term, the project could enhance Eritrea’s participation in the wider Desert to Power initiative.

Source: AfDB