Rwanda’s Green Revolution: Empowering SMEs with Solar Water Heaters for a Sustainable Future

Rwanda’s journey toward a greener future took another significant step on December 27, 2024, as the Ministry of Environment (MoE), in partnership with the Rwanda Cleaner Production and Climate Innovation Centre (CPCIC) and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), handed over Solar Water Heaters to 13 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

This initiative, spanning nine districts—Rubavu, Kirehe, Ngoma, Kayonza, Nyarugenge, Kicukiro, Rwamagana, Kamonyi, and Gasabo—aims to encourage the adoption of eco-friendly technologies and bolster climate action among Rwanda’s SMEs.

Thadee TWAGIRIMANA, Acting Director General of Environment and Climate Change at Ministry of Environment, highlighted Rwanda’s government programs, particularly NDCs version 2, which aim to reduce air pollution by 38% by 2030. This requires significant efforts to reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. With over 79% of Rwanda’s population using plant fuels, he emphasized the potential increase in air pollution if no action is taken.

He said, “So the fact that we have worked with these 13 companies in terms of providing solar water heaters is one of the pilot projects we have or even an initiative to see if it is actually done. Also, these people we are working with will help us in awareness.”

He explained that the water heaters were provided to reduce the use of wood, charcoal, and other materials in homes and companies, thereby reducing air pollution. The company’s development was also prioritized, as it helps save money and contributes to environmental conservation.

Germaine HIRWA, Acting CEO of Rwanda Cleaner Production and Climate Innovation Centre (CPCIC), highlighted the organization’s commitment to promoting climate-resilient technologies and cleaner production practices. Speaking about CPCIC’s partnership with the Ministry of Environment under the Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Sector for Green Economy Transformation (SCENR) Project, Hirwa stated, “Our focus is on enabling SMEs to adopt climate adaptation and mitigation technologies.”

A key initiative was the distribution of 25 Solar Water Heater (SWH) systems to 13 SMEs across various districts, completed between December 2023 and April 2024. Each SME received two 300-litre systems with supporting infrastructure.

The installations have yielded significant benefits, including reduced reliance on biomass, cost savings, increased workplace safety, reduced pollution, and time savings. SMEs have collectively saved over 3.786 million RWF monthly, with an annual reduction of 1, 560.965 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

Hirwa emphasized the broader environmental impact, stating, “This technology saves energy, mitigates emissions, and combats deforestation. It works well as water goes up to 90% in a good day when it’s sunny.”

One of the beneficiaries, Ernestine TUYISHIME, Production and Quality Control Manager at Buganza good wine Ltd, praised the use of solar water heaters for cooking wine, stating that they reduced the daily water usage from 100,000 RWF to 25,000 RWF, thereby preserving the environment and protecting people’s lives.

“The scarcity of wood reduces health risks due to its reduced use, while excessive wood usage can cause lung damage”, she said.

She added that the wine cooking time was significantly reduced, and the quality of the bottles on the market is guaranteed due to the use of hot water for washing, which effectively burns off remaining microbes.

She continued that, “These tanks can store heat, allowing us to use non-cold water for a week.”

Another beneficiary, Jean Damascene NSHIMIYIMANA, Managing Director at Centre d’Accueil Avega Agahozo Rwamagana, emphasized the economic benefits of using solar water heaters compared to traditional electricity costs. He also noted increased clientele due to the hassle-free hot water experience and positive customer interactions due to the excellent service provided.

He highlighted the potential environmental damage caused by electricity usage, particularly high temperatures, but insisted the importance of recognizing our role in preserving the environment through this technology.

Emmanuel MUTABAZI, Acting Head of Technology Acquisition Transfer and Commercialization Department at the National Industrial Research and Development Agency (NIRDA), praised this achievement as it aligns with the government’s and global plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting its significant milestone in this journey.

He requested beneficiaries to serve as ambassadors to expand the reach of the campaign, as some individuals may not fully comprehend the message.