Caribbean Development Bank Funds Haitian Initiative to Improve Access to Electricity
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a five-million US grant to fund a transformative initiative to improve access to electricity for several rural communities in Haiti.
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC—Resident currently rely on candles, kerosene, dry wood, and charcoal for lighting and cooking.
### Background
The CDB’s First Power (Rural Electrification Mini-Grid) – Haiti Project is critical to the Haitian Programme of Access to Solar Energy for Rural Communities.
### Key Activities
* Operationalization of previously constructed energy mini-grids designed to function independently of the main grid
* Expanding the low-voltage distribution network
* Connecting customers
* Procuring a competent operator
* Implementing a viable business model
* Integrating a Gender Policy and Action Plan for the Energy Sector in Haiti
### Current Situation
Only 40 percent of Haiti’s 10.7 million inhabitants have access to electricity, and just 10 percent of the rural population has reliable energy sources.
### Goal
The initiative marks a significant step towards achieving the Haitian government’s long-term goal of providing reliable, modern, and affordable energy to all its citizens by 2030.
### Project Financing
The CDB’s investment accounts for 43 percent of the total project cost of US$11.73 million, with the Haitian government providing the remaining US$6.73 million.
### Expert’s View
CDB’s sustainable energy specialist, Mrs. Charmaine Gill-Evans, said this effort is in keeping with the Bank’s mandate to promote a just energy transition in the Caribbean and represents a significant advancement in addressing the energy needs of Haiti’s underserved rural areas.
### Related Initiatives
The project builds on the Rural Electrification and Women’s Empowerment initiative, which was jointly executed by the government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with financial contributions from the governments of Japan and UNDP.
### Conclusion
This initiative is critical and timely, given the importance of electricity in improving lives and livelihoods. It is well-positioned to benefit rural populations, supports CDB’s mission to provide affordable, clean, sustainable, reliable, and renewable energy to our client countries, and contributes to the broader goal of promoting sustainable development and climate resilience in the region.
### FAQs
Q: What is the goal of the Haitian Programme of Access to Solar Energy for Rural Communities?
A: The goal is to provide reliable, modern, and affordable energy to all its citizens by 2030.
Q: How much has the CDB invested in the project?
A: The CDB’s investment accounts for 43 percent of the total project cost of US$11.73 million.
Q: What is the expected outcome of the project?
A: The project aims to improve access to electricity for rural communities in Haiti, with a focus on enhancing energy security, promoting economic development, and empowering rural populations.