Rwanda is working toward electrifying 20% of its bus fleet by 2030, a goal that will require major investment in energy infrastructure, policy development, and new financing approaches. This is according to a recent World Bank report titled "Exploring Enabling Energy Frameworks for Electric Mobility in Rwanda."
The report was prepared as part of the Rwanda Urban Mobility Improvement Project (RUMI) with support from the World Bank’s Quality Infrastructure Investment Partnership and Energy Sector Management Assistance Program. It analyzes the readiness of Rwanda’s power sector to accommodate electric mobility, focusing on battery electric buses. The study includes an assessment of electricity demand, charging infrastructure needs, and regulatory frameworks.
Rwanda has committed to making all new buses in Kigali electric and has created Ecofleet Solutions, a state-owned company tasked with transforming public transport through sustainable mobility initiatives. These efforts align with the country’s National Strategy for Transformation and climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
“Electric mobility is not only about cleaner buses. It is about building the foundations of a modern economy powered by sustainable energy,” said Sahr Kpundeh, World Bank Country Manager for Rwanda. “The World Bank is proud to support Rwanda as it aligns its energy and transport systems to meet its development goals.”
The report notes that expanding electric mobility could increase pressure on Rwanda's electricity grid if growth is not managed properly. Without upgrades, Kigali's peak power demand may rise by 64% by 2030 even without accounting for additional electric vehicles. The number of overloaded lines could also quadruple by that time if improvements are not made.
Smart charging—such as shifting vehicle charging to off-peak hours or aligning it with solar generation—is identified as an effective way to ease stress on distribution networks.
“Electrifying transport presents Rwanda with a generational opportunity to modernize public mobility, reduce emissions, and build resilience into its energy systems,” said Tarek Keskes, World Bank ESMAP Energy Specialist leading on the study. “Our analysis shows that Rwanda can achieve its goals if smart charging, cost-reflective tariffs, and integrated planning are prioritized.”
Currently, utilities charge industrial rates for electric vehicle charging which may not reflect all costs or risks posed to the grid. The report recommends introducing cost-reflective time-of-use tariffs so drivers charge when it benefits the system most.
The report also highlights the need for improved coordination among institutions involved in transport and energy planning. It suggests creating a unified roadmap and forming a dedicated working group representing all stakeholders.
Additional recommendations include integrating EV charging into national electricity pricing models; requiring EV-ready infrastructure in new buildings; upgrading grids at transit hubs like Nyabugogo Terminal; supporting these upgrades with rooftop solar and battery storage; regulating battery waste management; and encouraging recycling through Extended Producer Responsibility schemes.
To secure needed funding for these initiatives, opportunities such as blended finance arrangements, public-private partnerships, and green bonds are suggested.
“The Government of Rwanda is committed to accelerating the transition to electric mobility as part of our climate and development agenda,” said Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Minister of Infrastructure for Rwanda.
The report concludes that while Rwanda is positioned to lead Africa in developing electric mobility solutions, achieving this vision depends on coordinated policy efforts between transport and energy sectors.