Does Somaliland need a solar grid?

Somaliland has one of the world’s highest energy prices punctuated with frequent and often long-lasting power cuts. So far, only limited investments have been made into the generation of clean energy, among them a solar mini grid in Berbera, funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development.

Why is energy so expensive in Somaliland?

The government plans to ensure that all citizens have access to affordable energy from local and renewable sources by 2030. This goal is ambitious. Electricity across Somaliland is privatised and relies on fossil fuel, mainly diesel, which is imported from the Arabian peninsula. Energy is, therefore, costly and unsustainable.

Does Somaliland need electricity?

But it relies on affordable and reliable energy. That is what is lacking for most of Somaliland’s residents. The electricity access rate is estimated at 15%. Eighty percent of the population use biomass fuel, mostly charcoal and firewood, to fulfil their daily energy needs.

Why is infrastructure development so important in Somaliland?

Infrastructure development carries modernity’s promise of progress and development. But it relies on affordable and reliable energy. That is what is lacking for most of Somaliland’s residents. The electricity access rate is estimated at 15%.

Is Berbera a monopoly in Somaliland?

At least four major energy suppliers are competing for customers in Somaliland’s capital city, Hargeisa. But in contrast, the market in Berbera is dominated by the Berbera Power House, a private company that has established a monopoly position in the city.

Is there a solar grid in Berbera?

So far, only limited investments have been made into the generation of clean energy, among them a solar mini grid in Berbera, funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. Somaliland withdrew from Somalia in May 1991, after more than two years of civil war.