Mauritania – Desert To Power : RIMDIR1 – Green Mini-Grid Electrication Project

The Desert to Power: RIMDIR1 - Green Mini-grid Electrification Project is a historic first attempt to mobilise private sector capital in the energy sector in Mauritania. Its success will be crucial in ensuring that the model is replicated across the country. The pilot consists of the rural electrification of 40 localities by green mini-grids using a PPP model and stimulating energy demand by supporting income-generating activities (IGAs). More specifically, it will provide the 40 localities targeted by the Bank with MV/LV mini-grids connected to hybrid solar PV/diesel generation with storage, organized into 7 clusters. The project will focus in particular on solar hybridization and the creation of mini-grids to increase the rate of access to energy in rural areas. It will contribute directly to its key development indicators, notably i) electricity access rate (target 90% by 2030), ii) share of renewable energy in final energy consumption (%) (target 60% by 2030), and iii) number of households with access to electricity in rural areas (target 80% by 2030). The project has two components: (i) mini-networks and the development of income-generating activities, and (ii) project administration and management.