Rwanda’s healthcare system faces significant energy access challenges, with 72% of healthcare facilities (HFs) lacking grid connection and relying on diesel generators. The majority of on-grid facilities (74%) use diesel backup systems, while off-grid facilities are predominantly powered by diesel generators (70%) or solar PV systems (30%). The energy demand for hospitals is substantial, with daily electricity consumption averaging 825 kWh and monthly expenditure reaching 4,700,249 RWF.
The report proposes three strategies based on the current energy sources:
- For off-grid healthcare posts, installing standalone PV systems.
- For grid-connected healthcare posts and centers, replacing backup generators with battery banks.
- For hospitals, standardizing battery backup systems.
The cost analysis shows that a standalone PV system for off-grid healthcare posts costs $6,451, while grid-connected solutions range from $3,885 to $9,483. Various financing strategies are recommended, including performance contract systems (imihigo), public-private partnerships, and community health cooperatives.
The report identifies three delivery models for HFE electrification:
- Public model: Public entities provide funding and oversee project implementation.
- Not-for-profit model: Non-profit entities build and transfer assets to public institutions.
- Private model: Private entities develop and operate power plants under public-private partnerships.
The potential market size for off-grid PV systems is estimated at $1.5 million, while grid-connected backup systems require an investment of $8.5 million. Challenges include limited private sector engagement, unreliable electricity services, and data access issues. Recommendations include improving coordination among stakeholders, developing enabling mechanisms for private investment, and enhancing data collection and accessibility.
A three-phase roadmap is proposed to achieve 100% HFE electrification by 2027:
- Phase 1 (2023-2024): Feasibility studies and tendering.
- Phase 2 (2024-2025): Piloting and demonstration projects.
- Phase 3 (2025-2027): Scaling up successful projects.
Key outputs include a communication plan, financing framework, and integrated data platforms to support HFE projects.
