Potential for Peat-to-power Usage in Rwanda and Associated Implications

The persistent low-level access to modern energy in Rwanda is attributed to lack of investment in the energy sector. Accordingly, the investment in energy resources use is analyzed for electricity supply security. During a study period that spanned the years of 2013–2045, scenarios involving population and average GDP growth rates are used for the analysis of future electricity demand and supply. The introduction to the national grid of electricity from peat-fired plants helps phase out oil thermal power, thus the removal of electricity utility price subsidies. The supply of electricity security margin is also observed to be between 32% and 51%. In general, peat-to-power technology is cost competitive compared to the electricity utility price in Rwanda and the region.