Burkina Faso Advances Action Plan For Secure Photovoltaic Solar Mini-Network Investments

Mireille MEDA/NANA, the Director of Renewable Energies, led the validation workshop for Burkina Faso’s national action plan focused on risk mitigation tools linked to photovoltaic mini-solar network investments. Held in Ouagadougou, the workshop, supported by the General Directorate of Energy, addresses the challenges faced by private investors in the energy sector, including regulatory uncertainties, cost factors, security concerns, and employment considerations.

Burkina Faso recognizes the pivotal role of energy sector investments in driving economic and social development. However, to attract private investors, a comprehensive strategy for mitigating risks associated with photovoltaic solar mini-network investments is crucial. This initiative aligns with Burkina Faso’s broader goal of electrifying vulnerable communities by harnessing the abundant potential of solar energy.

The project, funded by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) under the institutional anchoring of the Liptako-Gourma authority, seeks to support Burkina Faso’s government initiatives in achieving widespread electrification. The validation of the action plan follows a study conducted by the UNDP in collaboration with ECREEE, financed by ASDI between 2021-2022. The study identified and integrated insights into development policies to create a conducive environment for investment in photovoltaic mini-networks.

Mireille MEDA/NANA emphasized that the validated action plan aims to address concerns among both the population and private investors. The successful implementation of this plan is expected to attract more investors to engage in the field of photovoltaic mini-networks, ultimately contributing to rural electrification in Burkina Faso. Stakeholders participating in the workshop aim to develop a consensual action plan for the effective implementation of risk mitigation tools, providing the private sector with the confidence needed for substantial investments in rural electrification.