Energy in Rwanda
Access and the grid
| Indicator | Figure |
|---|---|
| Households with access, 2020/21 | 64.53% |
| Households with access, end-2025 | 85.4% |
| Of which connected to the grid | 60.1% |
| Of which using solar systems | 25.3% |
| Transmission network (220 kV and 110 kV) | 1,158 km |
| Distribution lines built | 38,358.83 km |
| Substations | 37 |
Electricity value added grew 12% in the second quarter of 2026.
Projects under way
| Project | Capacity | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Nyabarongo II hydropower | 43.5 MW | Under construction |
| Rukarara VI hydropower | 9.7 MW | Under construction |
| Rusizi III hydropower (Rwanda, Burundi and DR Congo) | 206 MW | Construction started, delayed |
| Nyabarongo II solar PV | 200 MW | Planned |
| Mpanga solar PV | 30 MW | Planned |
The REG Strategic Plan 2024–2034 raises installed capacity from a baseline of 406 MW to 1,066 MW by 2033/34, with at least 60% of the energy mix from renewable sources and a reserve margin of 15% of peak demand.
Where investors fit in
- Independent power producers: hydro, solar, methane from Lake Kivu and peat plants sell power to REG under power purchase agreements.
- Off-grid solar: home systems and mini-grids for households and businesses beyond the grid.
- Clean cooking: LPG, improved stoves and pellets, a priority for reducing the use of firewood and charcoal.
- Energy efficiency and storage for factories and commercial buildings.
Power projects are licensed by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), which also sets tariffs.
What power costs
Tariffs depend on the type of customer and the voltage of the connection. Industrial users on medium and high voltage pay lower rates than small commercial users. See the electricity cost page for the current tariffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much generating capacity does Rwanda have?
472.95 MW, about double the 238 MW of 2020/21.
How many households have electricity?
85.4% at the end of 2025: 60.1% from the grid and 25.3% from solar systems. The target is universal access by 2029.
What capacity is planned?
The REG Strategic Plan 2024–2034 aims for 1,066 MW by 2033/34, with at least 60% of the energy mix from renewable sources.
Who licenses power projects and sets tariffs?
The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA).
Sources
- Rwanda Energy Group: Home page, REG at a glance
- Rwanda Energy Group: Electricity access reaches 85.4%, up from 64.53% five years ago
- National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda: GDP national accounts, second quarter of 2026
- Rwanda Energy Group: Strategic Plan 2024–2034
- Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority: Energy sector
Figures checked 9 November 2026. Prepared by InvestRwanda.com for general information. It is not investment, tax or legal advice; please confirm details with a qualified adviser before acting.
