Increasing access to energy: partner with ACERD and AMDA for mini-grid solutions in the DRC

The Congolese Association for Renewable and Decentralized Energy (ACERD asbl) has joined forces with the Association of Minigrid Developers in Africa (AMDA) to address the energy access deficit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) through minigrid solutions.

Their partnership aims to accelerate the development, financing and widespread deployment of mini-grids that deliver electricity to rural areas in the DRC that currently have no or limited access to energy. ACERD asbl and AMDA will work closely to promote favorable policies, regulations and standards that support the development of the minigrid sector.

One of the main goals of this cooperation is to conduct comprehensive research identifying opportunities and challenges related to the implementation of mini-grid projects. These efforts include sharing key data on energy demand and infrastructure requirements, which will be instrumental in informing stakeholders, policymakers and the public about the benefits of minigrid electrification.

Catherine Mukobo, CEO of ACERD asbl, seized the opportunity to partner with AMDA to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for mini-grids in the DRC. Receiving recognition in collaboration with AMDA underscores the importance of paving the way for the development of mini-grids and the development of the energy sector in the DRC,” Mukobo noted.

Olamide Niyi-Afuye, AMDA CEO, stressed the importance of collaboration in promoting policies that will create an enabling environment for the mini-grid sector. “Our goal is to work with all stakeholders to ensure the right mix of financing for the development of the mini-grid sector in the DRC. Standardizing indicators to measure progress in the sector will ensure informed decisions are made based on rigorous research and evidence,” Niyi-Afuye affirmed.

With a population of 99 million, the DRC faces significant challenges in the electricity sector, and according to World Bank data, in 2020 only about 20.8% of the population will have access to electricity. Given the country’s vast size and limited national grid coverage, mini-grids are a key solution to achieving widespread electrification and tackling fuel poverty in underserved regions.

The collaboration between ACERD asbl and AMDA is a key step towards leveraging decentralized energy solutions to improve living conditions, support economic development and improve quality of life across the DRC.

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