This first phase of the project will promote rural electrification through isolated solar photovoltaic (PV) green mini-grid systems as a low-carbon and resilient solution to the effects of climate change in the energy sector of Mali.

This would be achieved by: increasing the rural population's access to electricity in 50 identified communities by (a) switching energy demand from diesel generators, kerosene lamps, paraffin candles and other emitting sources; and (b) by installing 4.83 megawatts of isolated solar PV mini-grid systems. In addition this project will strengthen the capacity of public institutions engaged in rural electrification; catalyse the development of an efficient solar market that will enable Mali to meet its renewable energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets; contribute to the regulatory framework through capacity-building and putting in place an institutional framework to further promote the deployment of renewable energy; and catalyse the inclusion of the private sector in the programme through the incentivisation of workable and long-term operation and maintenance concessions.

This project has an estimated lifespan of 25 years.