10/12/2024

Transforming Mozambique’s energy market

The BRILHO programme brings off-grid energy and clean cooking to three million people.

Since its launch in 2019, the BRILHO programme, funded by the governments of the United Kingdom (FCDO) and Sweden (Sida) and implemented by SNV, has reached a historic milestone by delivering off-grid energy solutions to three million Mozambicans. This impact includes solar home systems, mini-grids, and improved cooking solutions, transforming lives and fostering a sustainable future in Mozambique.

The BRILHO programme was launched with the vision of catalysing Mozambique’s off-grid energy market by promoting affordable, efficient, and clean technologies to meet the needs of communities without access to the national electricity grid. This innovative initiative has been essential in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and firewood, improving health outcomes, enhancing quality of life, and protecting the environment.

Key achievements from 2019 - 2024:

  • Energy access for three million people: Transforming lives in off-grid communities previously dependent on polluting and unsafe energy sources.

  • Pioneering regulatory support: Supporting the Government of Mozambique in creating the country’s first off-grid energy regulatory framework.

  • Over 350,000 solar connections: Delivering reliable electricity through solar home systems and mini-grids, empowering off-grid areas.

  • 250,000+ improved cooking solutions distributed: Cutting firewood and charcoal use by up to 70%, benefiting public health and safeguarding the environment.

  • £ 39.6 million in private co-investment: Driving local entrepreneurship and enabling MSMEs to distribute and sustain clean energy solutions.

  • Reducing carbon emissions: Avoiding more than 763,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent, contributing to national and global climate goals.

To highlight its impact and outline the next steps, BRILHO has recently launched the report Transforming Off-Grid Energy Access in Mozambique: The BRILHO Programme Contribution. This publication showcases the programme’s results and introduces market 'game-changers' and enablers that are fundamental for achieving universal energy access in Mozambique by 2030.

BRILHO reaffirms its commitment to continue transforming lives and promoting economic and social inclusion in Mozambique. With the goal of benefiting even more communities by 2026, the programme will continue fostering the adoption of clean and accessible energy technologies, aligned with the goals of the Government of Mozambique and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy for All.

Partnerships between funders, implementers, and local communities have been the driving force behind BRILHO’s success. As the programme progresses, it will remain a catalyst for sustainable development in Mozambique.

For more information about BRILHO and to read the full report