In Bébalem market in southern Chad's Logone Occidental province, solar power is helping local businesses extend their hours and increase sales. Denis Tarlembaye, a shopkeeper, shared his experience: “Since I acquired this kit, I stay longer at the market. This allows me to increase sales. Instead of an average of CFAF 20,000 per day, I make between CFAF 30,000 and CFAF 35,000.”
Nearby, pharmacist Ferdinand Djeguemde reported similar benefits from improved lighting: "My revenue has consistently increased since installing the new lighting."
These improvements are part of the Energy Access Improvement Project. Under this program, 145,000 solar kits are being distributed at subsidized prices across 23 provinces in Chad. Each kit costs $100 but is sold for $20 to make it more affordable for households. The initiative aims to bring electricity access to around six million people by providing basic home lighting and phone charging.
Residents report that access to electricity is making daily life easier by supporting household appliances, preserving food, and improving access to information. Maurice Singambaye from Bah explained: “I save about CFAF 3,000 monthly and I always stay connected because I no longer have any energy problems.”
In rural areas, standalone solar systems are reducing reliance on fuelwood and kerosene lamps—sources of pollution and health risks—by providing clean energy.
For students like Diane Djenosem in Bébalem’s outskirts, solar lighting means fewer interruptions when studying at night: “Before, we had to buy batteries every few days. With solar, this is no longer the case. Even better, the light keeps away critters that sometimes sting under the cover of the night,” she said.
Jonas Kako in Belaba near Moundou described how savings from not buying batteries helped him invest in building materials: “I have been able to buy bricks with the money I have saved on buying batteries every week. This kit is economical, and my only fear is that it will break down and lead me back to spending as before,” he said.
Health centers are also seeing changes due to reliable electricity supplies. In Bitkine’s health center in Guéra province, Koye Anda noted an increase in patient numbers after installing a standalone solar system: “We are able to operate 24 hours a day. Patients who previously sought care at the main hospital branch have begun frequenting this center instead. The number of deliveries has also increased because we are currently the only facility in the city offering childbirth services during nighttime hours,” he stated.
Schools benefit as well; Loumba Assonghor school director Adjinei Mehram highlighted improved learning conditions thanks to autonomous solar systems: “The students even have the opportunity to come back in the evenings to review lessons thanks to the light,” he explained.
The Chad Energy Access Enhancement Project (PAAET), funded with nearly $295 million as part of Mission 300 initiative efforts, aims to raise electricity access rates from six percent in 2018 up to thirty percent by 2027—a goal expected to connect about one million households.