Lighting the path to recovery with renewable energy in Yemen

January 26, 2025
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Solar energy systems installed in Taiz Governorate with ERRY JP III support.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

Access to energy in Yemen was limited before the current conflict began nearly a decade ago. Since then, the energy crisis has worsened. Most households in Yemen struggle with irregular access to electricity and ongoing power outages.

Excessive dependency on fossil fuels had become the only option for some. But as the price of diesel skyrocketed over the years, regular access to electricity has moved out of reach for many Yemenis. This lack of reliable electricity has had a profound impact on various aspect of life in Yemen. Hospitals struggle to operate, schools cannot provide quality education, businesses face operational challenges, and households suffer from daily power outages. Water systems, which heavily rely on electricity for pumping, have also been disrupted, leading to water shortages and lack of adequate sanitation. 
 

Supporting access to renewable energy in Yemen

Through funding from the European Union (EU) and Government of Sweden, Supporting Resilient Livelihoods, Food Security, and Climate Adaptation in Yemen (the ERRY Joint Programme III), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has supported a range of decentralized off-grid initiatives to address the energy crisis. 

Over 164 public service facilities, including schools, healthcare centres, and local administration offices, have received solar energy equipment since 2023, benefiting 199,745 individuals (including 16,175 women) and allowing public services to resume critical functions in difficult times.

These small solar energy devices, installed across Yemen’s countryside, have sparked significant change. 

a man riding a bike down a dirt road

Installing solar energy systems for essential services in Yemen.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

Solar energy powers education facilities

Solar energy has transformed access to education across Yemen. Ninety-eight schools have benefited from solar power through the ERRY JP III, allowing education staff to print materials, provide sufficient lighting, improve classroom ventilation, and operate computers. This has created more conducive learning environments for students.

In Lahj Governorate, the solar energy system installed at Kod Otira School has provided much-needed power to the school, improving the school's overall functionality, and maximizing the impact on target communities. The school itself was built by the World Food Programme (WFP) as part of the ERRY JP III. 

Mr. Ali, the school principal, shares, "Before the solar system, our students suffered through the hot summer months. But now, with the power of the sun, we can keep our classrooms cool and comfortable. This has significantly reduced student dropout rates and improved the overall learning environment."

a bench in front of a building

Solar panels installed at Kod Otira School, funded by ERRY JP III, Lahj Governorate.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

Technical and vocational training institutes have also been revitalized through solar power. Al-Khayami Technical Institute in Taiz Governorate, a major educational institution, has reopened its doors after years of disruption and is now training over 200 students in various vocational fields. A 24-kilowatt solar energy system powers the institute’s labs and computers, providing students with the skills needed to succeed in today's job market.

A technician installs solar panels on a building rooftop with mountains in the background.

A 15-kilowatt solar system installed at the Technical Commercial Institute in Taiz.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

The Technical Commercial Institute in Alsennah Subdistrict of Taiz Governorate has also benefited from solar energy. Equipped with a 15-kilowatt solar energy system, the institute has become a hub of learning and innovation. 

a man standing in front of a mirror posing for the camera

The Dean of the Technical Commercial Institute highlights the impact of solar energy on reducing costs and improving performance.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

The Dean of the Commercial Institute, Mr. Essam, explains, “We used to struggle with frequent power outages and high fuel costs. However, the installation of this solar energy system has significantly reduced our financial burden and operational costs. This has allowed us to focus on providing quality education to our students.”

Mr. Tariq, a pediatric nursing teacher at the institute, adds, "The solar system has transformed my teaching experience. I can now use essential equipment like projectors to enhance my lessons and engage students.”

Solar power improves Yemeni healthcare facilities

Fifty-four healthcare facilities equipped with solar energy systems can now safely store vital medicines and vaccines, operate essential equipment like laboratory machines, and improve overall service delivery.

Ms. Hayat, the Director of Dhahr Abu Teir Health Unit, a facility constructed with ERRY JP III support, states, “With reliable power, we can now dream of a fully equipped facility, including a laboratory and an obstetric emergency room. This will undoubtedly save lives and improve the health of our people.”

a person standing in front of a refrigerator

Dahr Abu Tair Health Unit, Hajjah Governorate.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

A greener future for Yemen

The ERRY III Joint Programme is not only addressing Yemen's energy crisis but also playing a crucial role in enhancing the country's climate security. Installing more renewable energy solutions reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps mitigate Yemen’s vulnerability to climate change-related impacts, such as extreme weather, water scarcity, and food insecurity. 

The 164 solar systems installed under the programme are projected to reduce 560 tonnes of emissions of CO2 and greenhouse gases annually.

Hybrid mini-grids: A sustainable solution 

UNDP has established a hybrid mini-grid plant project in Ash Shamayatain, Taiz Governorate, combining solar and wind power to provide reliable and clean energy to remote and off-grid areas. The plant generates 200kW of electricity, powering local markets while significantly reducing 72-ton emissions of CO2 annually.

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A clean energy solution: The wind and solar mini grid in Ash Shamayatain District, Taiz.

UNDP Yemen / 2024
a man wearing a helmet

A private sector partner contributes to Yemen's energy future by installing a hybrid mini grid in Ash Shamayatain District with ERRY JP III support.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

Fawzia, a local community leader and member of the community committee formed to manage the mini grid plant’s operations, shares her perspective on the project's impact, “Using clean natural resources like sunshine and wind not only generates power but ensures that our environment remains unpolluted, benefiting both our community and the planet.” 

a person wearing an umbrella hat

Fawzia, a local community leader, shares her vision of a cleaner, more sustainable future powered by the hybrid mini grid.

UNDP Yemen / 2024

A brighter tomorrow

The ERRY III Joint Programme demonstrates the transformative power of renewable energy. By showcasing the viability and sustainability of clean energy solutions, the programme is fostering a culture of environmental consciousness and driving Yemen's transition to a low-carbon future.

The programme, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Labour Organization (ILO), and World Food Programme (WFP)and generously funded by the European Union (EU) and the Government of Sweden, paves a path toward a more sustainable and resilient Yemen.