Benin

The Off-Grid Electricity Access Project (OGEAP)  in Benin is a component of the Benin Power Compact, a $391 million effort funded by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) from 2017 to 2023. The OGEAP was allocated $31 million to improve off-grid electrification with the Off-Grid Clean Energy Facility (OCEF) and assist in policy reform and institutional strengthening in the off-grid sector.

The main goals of the OGEAP are:

• The objective of the project was to offer electricity to more than 36,000 homes, businesses, and buildings, mainly using solar home systems.

• Decreasing dependence on costly and less dependable energy sources by advocating for off-grid solutions to reduce reliance on them.

• Enhancing electricity access aimed to boost productivity by extending operating hours for businesses and public services, minimizing product wastage, and enhancing overall efficiency.

Read More:  Enabling Off-Grid Energy Investment in Benin (mcc.gov)

The EIB and ENGIE Energy Access Initiative in Benin was launched on June 21, 2021, with a focus on improving access to off-grid energy. It aims to deploy 107,000 solar home systems, benefiting around 643,000 people and improving their quality of life. The initiative helps reduce the use of polluting energy sources like kerosene and generators, saving money for families and reducing pollution. The PAYGO model makes the systems financially feasible for low-income households, promoting financial inclusion. Additionally, by replacing traditional energy sources with clean solar power, the initiative contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combatting climate change. Overall, the program is essential in achieving universal energy access in Benin, unlocking sustainable economic and social development, reducing energy poverty, and enhancing the overall quality of life for many in the country.

Read more:  Benin: Access to reliable and affordable off-grid energy to be transformed under new EIB – ENGIE Energy Access initiative