World Bank has announce its support to Eswatini’s universal energy access initiative through the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) project.
The country is advancing towards universal electricity access by 2030. ASCENT project aims to extend electricity to the remaining 12% of the population, focusing on rural and disadvantaged communities to enhance their economic opportunities and quality of life.
Building on the ongoing Network Reinforcement and Access Project, ASCENT will align with Eswatini’s Rural Electrification Plan and National Energy Policy (2018) to provide electricity to 200,000 people. Over the next five years, 50,000 new households will be connected, marking a 20% increase from the 249,014 households electrified in 2023.
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Grid and off-grid solutions
The initiative incorporates both grid and off-grid solutions, prioritizing underserved areas to drive economic growth and improve living conditions. Additionally, the project will offer technical expertise, sector planning support, and capacity-building efforts to strengthen Eswatini’s energy security and financial sustainability.
Satu Kahkonen, World Bank Country Director for Eswatini, emphasized that expanding electricity access is crucial for economic progress, better livelihoods, and service delivery. The World Bank remains dedicated to helping Eswatini meet its 2030 universal electricity access goal, in alignment with global energy sustainability efforts.
ASCENT Eswatini represents the ninth phase of the World Bank’s broader ASCENT program in Eastern and Southern Africa. The project has received funding from multiple sources including, International Development Association (IDA), International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and Livable Planet Fund (LPF1).
With this initiative, Eswatini is on track to become one of the few African nations to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) by 2030. Additionally, the country aims to significantly increase renewable energy adoption in its power mix.
According to Minister of Economic Planning and Development, Thambo Gina, ASCENT Eswatini will not only expand energy access but also contribute to improved living standards and economic growth. By ensuring a reliable, sustainable, and inclusive energy supply, the project will play a crucial role in achieving the nation’s development objectives.