The Mushishito-Rukarara V Hydropower Project has become the first project from Rwanda to be registered with the Global Carbon Council (GCC). This registration marks an important step in Rwanda’s engagement with GCC’s carbon crediting framework, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to renewable energy and global climate action.
Advancing Clean Energy in Rwanda
The Rukarara V and Mushishito Hydropower Plants are run-of-river greenfield projects located on the Rukarara and Mushishito rivers, respectively, in the Nyamagabe district of Rwanda. Developed by Omnihydro Limited, a subsidiary of Omnicane (Mauritius), the project comprises two run-of-river hydropower plants with individual capacities of 3.15 MW (Rukarara V) and 2.28 MW (Mushishito), totaling 5.43 MW. The plants collectively generate an estimated 20 GWh of clean electricity annually, which is supplied to Rwanda’s national grid via a 30 kV transmission line.
Addressing Critical Challenges
Rwanda faces significant energy challenges, with only 35% of locations connected to the national grid as of 2018. The country ranks 159th out of 199 nations on the Human Development Index, with 54.4% of the population living below the national poverty line. While alternative power generation methods like thermal power are feasible, they are more costly and environmentally detrimental. The Mushishito-Rukarara V Hydropower Project represents a cleaner, more sustainable solution in line with Rwanda’s national renewable energy strategy.
Electricity in Rwanda is predominantly sourced from hydropower (50%), yet access remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas where only 1 in 10 individuals had electricity in 2019. The project directly supports Rwanda’s strategy to increase renewable energy availability and achieve 100% electricity access by 2024, with at least 70% sourced from renewables.
Methodology and Validation and Verification
The project follows the AMS.I.D methodology for grid-connected renewable electricity generation (Version 18.0) and complies with ISO standards (ISO 14064-2 and ISO 14064-3). It has earned CORSIA-eligible status, enabling its carbon credits to be used under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation.
4K Earth Science Private Limited undertook verification of the project, ensuring compliance with GCC requirements. Their certification confirmed the project’s adherence to the Environmental and Social Safeguards Standard, and its eligibility for the Environmental No-net-harm Label (E+), Social No-net-harm Label (S+), and Silver SDG certification label (SDG+).
Contributions to Environment, Society, and Sustainable Development
The Mushishito-Rukarara V Hydropower Project stands as a testament to responsible renewable energy development, achieving the Environmental No-Harm (E+), Social No-Harm (S+), and SDG+ certifications under the Global Carbon Council (GCC). These recognitions highlight the project’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact, fostering social well-being, and contributing to global sustainability goals.
On the environmental front, the project has been evaluated across key impact areas, including air quality, natural resource conservation, noise pollution, and waste management. As a renewable energy initiative, it generates zero emissions while displacing fossil fuel-based electricity, reducing the carbon footprint of Rwanda’s power sector. The project also implements stringent waste disposal and spill management measures, ensuring that hazardous materials are properly handled. Furthermore, regular biodiversity assessments confirm that the project does not disrupt local ecosystems, reinforcing its “no-net-harm” status.
Socially, the project creates long-term employment opportunities and enhances workforce skills through job-related training programs. Health, safety, and sanitation measures have been integrated into its operations, with dedicated monitoring plans in place to ensure compliance with national labor and environmental laws. Importantly, the project upholds human rights principles, adhering to policies that prevent child and forced labor.
Beyond environmental and social benefits, the project contributes directly to three United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Climate Action (SDG 13). Its efforts in expanding clean energy access, generating employment, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions have earned it the prestigious Silver SDG+ certification.
By aligning with these high standards, the Mushishito-Rukarara V Hydropower Project not only strengthens Rwanda’s renewable energy sector but also exemplifies how sustainable infrastructure can drive positive environmental and social transformation.
According to the Chairman of Omnihydro Limited, Jacques M. d’Unienville, “The hydropower project in Rwanda, developed by Omnicane Ltd., has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first in the region to secure Global Carbon Council’s approval. This recognition reinforces our commitment to best-in-class ESG practices as we transition to a 100% renewable energy Independent Power Producer (IPP) in the near future. Beyond contributing to clean energy, the project fosters value creation through capacity building and engagement with the local community.”
Kevin Padiachy, Head of Africa Desk at Omnicane and Project Director, added, “With significant capital expenditure deployed in this hydropower project, the ability to generate revenue through carbon trading is a welcomed opportunity. We are actively exploring carbon markets to effectively monetize the carbon credits and will continue collaborating with local authorities in Rwanda to support this initiative.”
Pioneering Green Energy for Rwanda
As the first project from Rwanda to register with the GCC, the Mushishito-Rukarara V Hydropower Project highlights the nation’s renewable energy potential and commitment to sustainable development.
This achievement is a testament to the power of international collaboration in tackling global energy challenges. Stay tuned as GCC continues to support transformative projects that contribute to a greener future.
