Solar Access Project

The Solar Access Project in the Union of the Comoros is a national energy access initiative supported by the World Bank to expand electricity availability by scaling up renewable energy generation and strengthening the performance of the power utility.¹ The project addresses chronic electricity shortages, where national electrification rates remain below 70%, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.² The project ispart of a broader energy sector reform agenda.³

The project aims to improve access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity services while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.⁴ It aligns with the Comoros’ national development strategy for sustainable growth and poverty reduction.⁵

The project key components includes:⁶

• Grid-connected solar photovoltaic installations to expand renewable generation capacity
• Hybrid mini grids to improve electricity access in underserved areas, particularly outside main grid coverage
• Institutional capacity-building measures for the national utility to strengthen planning, operations, and service delivery performance.
• Solar based displacement of diesel generation to reduce reliance on imported fuels and lower system operating costs over time.
• Network rehabilitation and metering improvements to reduce technical and commercial losses.

From a sustainability perspective, the project directly contributes to greenhouse-gas emissions reduction and climate resilience in a small-island developing state highly vulnerable to fuel price volatility.⁷

The project is funded by the World Bank and implemented in partnership with the Government of the Union of the Comoros and the national electricity utility.⁸

Implementation is structured in sequential components covering generation, networks, and institutional reform.⁹ The project is currently under implementation since 2020, with solar installations and grid upgrades progressing across multiple islands.¹⁰

Upon completion, the Solar Access Project is expected to significantly improve electricity reliability, reduce generation costs, and expand renewable energy’s share in the national energy mix.¹¹