Benin

The 2020 Electricity Code in Benin has transformed the solar sector through key points:  

• Market Liberalization has allowed private investors to participate in electricity production, transmission, and distribution, attracting more investments in solar energy. The focus on renewable energy, especially solar, aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable solutions.   

• The Electricity Regulatory Authority has been empowered to enforce regulations, ensuring fair competition and consumer protection, benefiting the solar sector.   

• Incentives like tax exemptions and subsidies encourage solar project development, making investments more financially viable. Support for off-grid solar systems in rural areas increases electricity access and promotes solar energy usage.   

Overall, the Electricity Code has created a positive environment for the solar energy sector in Benin, fostering growth, innovation, and expansion of solar projects nationwide.  

Read more:  Benin-Electricity-Code-Bill-2020.pdf (electricitylawyer.com)  

The solar industry in Benin has been significantly impacted by the National Renewable Energy Development Policy of 2020. It has gained the attention of investors from both within the country and abroad through offering explicit instructions and motivators. The government provides financial incentives, like tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage the use of solar power, making it easier for businesses and households to adopt. The policy also prioritizes off-grid solar options in remote regions, enhancing electricity accessibility and enhancing quality of life. The implementation of capacity building programs has resulted in a competent workforce that can install and upkeep solar energy systems. The policy aims to enhance the use of solar energy to decrease reliance on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions for environmental sustainability. Public awareness initiatives have also played a role in informing the public about the advantages of solar power, leading to greater approval and use by the overall population.  

Few impacts of the policy are:  

• Installed Solar Capacity: The installed capacity for solar energy has seen significant growth. For instance, the Defisol project, which involves a 25-megawatt photovoltaic power plant, is one of the largest solar projects in West Africa.  

• Electricity Access: The policy aims to increase electricity access to 95% in urban areas and 65% in rural areas by 2025. This includes a substantial contribution from off-grid solar solutions.  

• Energy Consumption: In 2021, renewable energy consumption in Benin reached 124,363 TJ (terajoules), with a significant portion coming from solar energy.  

Read more:  https://direction-energie.gouv.bj/documents/politique-nationale-de-developpement-des-energies-renouvelables-2020.html