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Renewable Energy for Refugees
A Second Phase of Impact
Whether powering a small business workshop, lighting a school, or helping families cook safely at home – we are working to deliver clean, sustainable energy that enables purpose, dignity, and lasting impact.
The second phase of Practical Action’s Renewable Energy for Refugees project (RE4RII) is transforming access to clean, reliable energy for people living and working in five of Rwanda’s refugee camps, as well as their surrounding host communities.
August 2022 to April 2027
Rwanda
Energy that transforms
In places where accessing reliable energy can be challenging, the project provides practical, sustainable solutions that improve daily life and expand economic opportunity. Building on our impactful earlier work, this second phase extends to Kigeme, Nyabiheke, Mahama, Mugombwa, and Kiziba camps.
RE4RII enables access to affordable electricity, clean cooking, and solar lighting for homes, businesses, and public spaces. It powers everything from refrigeration in cafés, butcheries, and grocery shops, to the tools and appliances used by hairdressers, phone repair services, and business centres.
By reducing reliance on aid and fostering economic independence, the project strengthens local markets and creates jobs, working alongside private companies to secure long-term, reliable energy access.
Project Overview
Title: Renewable Energy for Refugees, phase two (RE4RII).
Dates: August 2022 to April 2027
Location: Kigeme, Nyabiheke, Mahama, Mugombwa, and Kiziba refugee camps, Rwanda
Our role: As leaders of this project, Practical Action coordinates activities across the five refugee camps and surrounding host communities, working with energy companies to deliver solar power and clean cooking solutions, and supporting refugees and local businesses to use energy for income-generating activities. We also ensure that public amenities – such as schools, health centres, and streets – have access to reliable energy. Our focus is on strengthening local energy markets and partnerships to make sure energy is affordable, inclusive, and sustainable over the long term.
Lead donor: The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).
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