What is the energy access problem in Mali?

Mali faces a critical energy access challenge. The national power access rate was 50% in 2019 (compared to 36.11% in 2015). The problem is particularly acute in rural areas with 21.12% access rate in 2019 (compared to 15.75% in 2015).

How a decentralized energy supply works in Mali?

The small size and dispersed locations of villages in Mali for a long time made off-grid decentralized mechanical and electric energy supply the only viable option. A multifunctional platform consists of a 10-hp diesel engine that, as desired, can power a mill, a generator, a pump or other devices mounted on the same rail.

What is the power access rate in Mali?

The national power access rate was 50% in 2019 (compared to 36.11% in 2015). The problem is particularly acute in rural areas with 21.12% access rate in 2019 (compared to 15.75% in 2015). Power generation is limited (Annex A.17), forcing Energie du Mali (EDM, the power utility) to have recourse to frequent load shedding.

Why is energy du Mali struggling with load shedding?

Power generation is limited (Annex A.17), forcing Energie du Mali (EDM, the power utility) to have recourse to frequent load shedding. EDM’s difficulties stem from the discrepancy between the average price (CFAF96 per KWh) and the power production cost (CFAF130 per kWh) in 2019.

Is energy du Mali subsidized?

Energie du Mali (EDM), the state-owned electric utility, is poorly managed and heavily subsidized by the government and regional multinational banks, as the relatively high price of its electricity (average $0.17/kWh) is insufficient to cover the cost of production and distribution ($0.24/kWh).

Why is Mali a partner of power Africa?

Mali is a partner of Power Africa, a market-driven, U.S. government-led public-private partnership (PPP) aiming to double access to electricity in sub-Saharan Africa. It offers tools and resources to private sector entities to facilitate doing business in sub-Saharan Africa’s power sector.