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The adoption of PUE technologies could transform Rwanda’s economic landscape. By reducing time and resource inefficiencies, these technologies unlock income-generating opportunities and foster sustainable growth and social welfare. With initial funding and strategic policies in place, Rwanda can ignite a virtuous cycle of development, empowering communities and ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future.
Key messages from the report:
- Rwanda has significant opportunities to enhance development through PUE technologies.
- Holistic strategies, including financial support, capacity building, and policy interventions, can catalyze PUE adoption and stimulate economic growth.
- Four technologies in particular—solar water pumps, solar refrigerators, electric motorcycles, and electric pressure cookers—have high potential for market expansion.
- These technologies are pivotal to achieving sustainable energy access.
The four PUE technologies identified by the report, with high potential for immediate and long-term growth, are:
- Solar Water Pumps (SWPs): Only 8.1% of small-scale farmers currently use irrigation, with 2% relying on machine-powered solutions.
- Solar-Powered Refrigerators: Although 100,000 refrigerators are in use, adoption of solar-powered options remains low.
- Electric Motorcycles: Offering sustainable alternatives for transport and logistics.
- Electric Pressure Cookers (EPCs): Adoption is at a mere 0.19%, yet EPCs present immense potential for households and institutions.
Pilot testing demonstrated substantial economic benefits across all technologies, with internal rates of return ranging from 17% for solar pumps to 45% for EPCs. The estimated short-term market investment potential stands at $152 million, expanding to $243 million in the long term.
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