In East Africa, Eritrea plans to launch two solar hybrid power systems that will provide grid quality electricity to 40,000 people and businesses in the towns of Areza and Maidma.

In an effort to aid the country in bringing power to those without grid connections the EU, UNDP, and the government of Eritrea launched the project last year.

The solar hybrid programme, which is being undertaken by UK firm Solarcentury, is to be completed this year.

Currently, the two Eritrean agricultural towns have no access to the national grid. Located in the country’s southern region the communities depend on small diesel generators, which are environmentally damaging and provide limited and intermittent power supply.

“This project aims to improve the livelihoods of people living in rural towns and villages. It is hoped the project will be replicated in order to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in Eritrea and provide access to reliable power 24/7,” a representative of the Eritrean Ministry of Energy and Mines said.