Somalia promotes clean energy in education: Photovoltaic systems power schools in Banadir

The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) is taking significant steps to promote renewable energy in the education sector. The Ministry of Energy and Water Resources (MoEWR) has initiated the implementation of stand-alone photovoltaic systems in educational institutions across Banadir. This initiative, which is part of the Somalia Electricity Sector Recovery Project (SESRP) funded by the International Development Association (IDA), aims to increase access to cleaner and more affordable energy services.

The project involves 200 educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, higher education institutions and Ministry of Education offices, to reduce electricity costs and provide reliable power supply. Photovoltaic systems combined with battery energy storage systems (BESS) will meet the specific energy needs of each institution.

The Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) highlights both the positive and potentially negative impacts of PV systems, proposing measures to mitigate risks while maximizing benefits. The ESMP ensures the sustainability of the project by addressing environmental and social issues, engaging stakeholders, and establishing a comprehensive management plan for the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of the project.

Stakeholder consultations, including interviews with facility managers and site reconnaissance, were conducted to assess the feasibility and impact of PV installations. The assessment found that the proposed sites in Banadir, including both public and private institutions, have sufficient space and infrastructure to support PV systems.

This initiative is aligned with the broader SESRP objectives of optimizing renewable energy generation, improving public service delivery, and enhancing sector governance and capacity. Through the electrification of educational facilities, FGS aims to attract and retain skilled workers, improve emergency response capabilities, and support community benefits.

The deployment of solar PV systems in the education sector in Banadir is an important step towards Somalia’s energy transformation and demonstrates the country’s commitment to sustainable development and clean energy solutions.

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