Electricity shortage in the DRC: is solar a viable solution for businesses?

The electricity shortage in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has long been a barrier to industrial development and economic growth. Despite the country’s vast natural resources, its electrical grid remains underdeveloped. Frequent power outages paralyze businesses, affecting production and reducing competitiveness.

To cope with these outages, most companies rely on generators. Renewable energy solutions, particularly solar mini-grids, are starting to emerge as an alternative. Unlike hydropower plants, which can take years to build, a solar mini-grid can be operational within months. Once installed, this option becomes very economical over time, with minimal maintenance and operating costs.

A Heavy Toll on Businesses

The extractive and manufacturing industries are especially impacted by these energy disruptions. Intermittent power supply leads to costly production halts, harming profits, jobs, and tax revenue. Spyros Giourgas, CEO of Congo Energy, highlights that “the national electrical grid is not only limited but also outdated, or even nonexistent in some regions. Companies that rely on stable energy face major challenges. Each power outage causes significant financial losses and threatens their long-term viability.”

Solar: An Economical and Ecological Alternative

More and more Congolese companies are turning to solar energy solutions. After the initial investment, solar provides free, renewable energy. Small autonomous solar plants, often installed on company rooftops, provide continuous power. Paired with a generator for periods of low sunlight, these installations allow businesses to operate without interruption while cutting costs.

Spyros Giourgas explains: “We offer autonomous solar plants tailored to business needs. The combination of solar panels and generators ensures uninterrupted power, even when sunlight is scarce. It’s essential to conduct a preliminary study to adjust the installation to each region in the DRC, ensuring the best performance. We work with companies like Brasimba, which aim to secure stable energy while reducing their carbon footprint.”

A Solar-Powered Future for Businesses in the DRC?

The solar potential in the DRC is immense. The country has ideal conditions to harness this clean energy. However, this potential remains largely untapped. By investing in solar solutions, businesses can not only reduce their operational costs but also meet the growing international sustainability requirements.

Spyros Giourgas concludes: “Solar can provide a quick solution to the energy deficit that’s holding back businesses in the DRC. We must also acknowledge the potential of hydropower, although its implementation takes several years. With the right financial and regulatory support, these solutions could transform the country’s energy landscape, helping businesses stay competitive while reducing their environmental impact.”