Burundi Uninterruptible Power Supply

Burundi's installed electrical capacity stands at about 115 megawatts, and less than 15% of the country's 12 million people are connected to the national grid, according to official figures. The country's 10-year development plan until 2027 says 400 megawatts are needed to meet industrialization goals.

The erratic power in Burundi “has an impact on the reputation of the company.” The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Residents say the most pressing issue to address these days is the unreliable power supply, which can shut down business across the country for hours on end. From hospital administrators to hoteliers, Burundians told The Associated Press they are losing money — and the government will, too, when it's time to collect taxes.

(AP Photo/Berthier Muugirraaneza) A gas station that ran out of fuel is seen in Bujumbura, Burundi, Thursday, June 6, 2024. Some businesses have invested in generators, but they struggle to find fuel to power them.

In a context where the Government of Burundi (GoB) has developed an ambitious program to reach universal access by 2030, the Bank is actively supporting that program along with other donors and this additional financing will provide more capacity to supply additional customers that will be connected through that program.

WASHINGTON, January 10, 2024 — Although Burundi's economic growth is steadily improving, efforts risks stalling due to lack of access to electricity which affects households,industries, and commercial premises.