Final Master Thesis report EGI 2010-2013

Thesis Title: The Role of Renewable Energies in Energy supply Planning and   Management for Sustainable    Development “Case of Rwanda”.

ABSTRACT

This report provides an overview of the main results from the scenarios analysed in the Rwanda energy policy strategy, planning and prospective energy initiatives and alternatives (Hydropower, Biomass, Solar, Methane, Peat, etc.) as well as other Government Development Frameworks meant for poverty reduction strategies and economic development. Under this context, the report attempts to assess the role of renewable energies particularly micro hydropower in solving Rwanda energy supply and management issues for sustainable development. The main conclusion is that renewable energies (micro hydropower) substantially contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving diversification of the energy production and supply into the national grid as well as independent off-grid systems particularly in rural based areas that are far from the grid. This becomes even more significant and relevant when considering that electricity access in the country stands at about 14% leaving about 86% of the population especially in rural areas without power supply.

Although other technologies are still used to meet urgent and pressing power demand, Renewable energy sources are well placed in offering medium and long term solution in a sustainable manner.

To this effect therefore, the report has tried to outline the impacts, costs and benefits of ambitious renewable energy targets for Rwanda in the medium and long term perspectives.