LocationsSolar microgrids make a difference for Yemeni entrepreneurs
January 8, 2025
A group of solar panels installed by HEAL's program, backed by the UNDP and funded by the Kuwait Fund, in Aden, Yemen, w hich aims to improve healthcare access and create livelihood opportunities with renewable energy.
For years, communities in Yemen have suffered from frequent and extended power outages. In their attempts to secure electricity, individuals have resorted to diesel-fueled generators, but many find this option unsustainable due to fuel shortages in official markets and exorbitant prices. This situation underscores the urgent need for alternative energy solutions to ensure the continuity of public services and support the country's development process.
Recognizing this urgent need, UNDP, with support from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, is implementing the "Renewable Energy to Improve Access to Health Services and Livelihood Opportunities" (HEAL) Project across five governorates in Yemen: Aden, Lahj, Abyan, Sana'a, and Hajjah.
This project aims to mitigate the severe impacts of the ongoing electricity crisis, particularly on vulnerable communities.
"The electricity crisis has been a major challenge for the population, particularly impacting kiosk and commercial stall owners who depend on refrigeration to sustain their businesses. Many of these entrepreneurs have faced disruptions or closures as a result," explains Imad Al-Obaidi, a project coordinator at Enjaz Foundation, local partner assisting with project implementation. “To address this issue, the solar micro-grids project was implemented. Operated by low-income youth and marginalized individuals who are the primary breadwinners for their families, these solar microgrid stations not only provide clean energy for shop owners but also generate income for their operators, contributing to the community’s economic empowerment.”
The HEAL Project aims to bolster economic empowerment for women and youth by encouraging the establishment of solar microgrid stations. These initiatives will create employment and income-generating opportunities for operators, enabling them to meet their families' basic needs. It is projected that the number of beneficiaries, including both operators and subscribers, will reach approximately 205,000 individuals (106,600 men and 98,400 women).
Making in impact
To support communities with solar microgrid access, 360 participants were selected across the five governorates, organized into groups of 7 to 10 individuals, with each responsible for operating a solar microgrid station. Each group received an integrated micro-grid solar energy system with solar panels (up to 48 panels, depending on site-specific needs and environmental conditions), batteries, and inverters, all tailored to the specific requirements of their system.
Beyond providing access to clean energy, this project has significant social and economic benefits. As Imad points out, “This project provides a vital lifeline for these young people and the families they support, offering a much-needed opportunity to earn a living since they do not have a steady source of income.”
Recognizing the importance of empowering these young entrepreneurs, UNDP, in partnership with Enjaz Foundation, has worked to enhance their skills through six-day training programmes designed to equip them with the necessary expertise to manage the solar micro-grid projects while maintaining their sustainability and expansion.
Aya, a Business Administration graduate from Lahj who works at one of the new solar microgrid stations, shares, “I participated in two specialized courses: the first focused on installation and maintenance of solar panels, while the second covered business management.” Reflecting on her training, she adds, “I now have the skills to operate a solar microgrid station and deal with any malfunctions that may arise. I gained valuable practical skills through this training, which was a completely new and rewarding experience for me.”
Renewable energy projects, specifically solar microgrids stations, offer significant benefits at both the individual and community levels. Operators benefit financially from selling electricity and gain practical experience in business management. Meanwhile, these solar micro-grids provide a sustainable and renewable source of energy, allowing shop owners to access affordable and uninterrupted electricity for long periods. Consequently, local markets thrive with reliable power, which in turn strengthens the resilience of communities impacted by conflict.
The success of these projects relies on the collaborative efforts of the entire operating team, with each member undertaking tasks that align with their studies, interests, and abilities. Adel, who works at one of the new solar microgrid stations in Aden Governorate, states, “My role involves installing electrical circuit breakers for local shops then connecting them to the electric network.”
In line with this philosophy, Sana’a, who also works at a solar microgrid station in Aden Governorate, further explains, “Given that each member is responsible for tasks related to their prior studies or interests, I, along with some of my colleagues, was drawn to the marketing role. We undertook this responsibility because we are the most capable of persuading and influencing others to subscribe to the services the station provides.” This approach to task distribution, she notes, has helped to streamline workflow within the group.
Solar energy: A lifeline for businesses
These renewable energy projects have been highly popular among shop owners. Aya confirms, “We have seen a strong turnout, with both kiosk and shop owners expressing interest in subscribing to the power station. Revenue is good, and I am confident that the coverage of our solar microgrid station will expand in the future.” She adds, “On a personal level, my monthly income has increased. Given the current low employment rates, this job allows me to meet my family’s needs. I have also acquired new skills, including the installation of solar energy systems and the ability to perform necessary maintenance and repairs in case of any problems or malfunctions.”
Similarly, Adel shares his experience, stating, “I gained extensive knowledge about solar energy systems and how they operate, and working at the solar microgrid station has become my primary source of income.”
This shift toward renewable energy has been a game-changer for many in the community, including Ahmed, a barber in Ash Shaikh Outhman, Aden. He recalls his struggles with frequent power outages, which ultimately forced him to close his shop. He recalls, “I relied on an electric generator that consumed vast amounts of petrol, which meant I spent most of my earnings on fuel. Moreover, the generator was quite noisy and was incredibly disruptive.”
Solar energy systems not only help reduce fuel costs but are also crucial for preserving the environment. Imad highlights this:
“Renewable energy projects reduce noise pollution and carbon emissions, creating a safe and healthy environment.” He notes that the project was initiated after UNDP carried out an assessment to identify the most significant needs of local markets in the targeted areas.
Beyond providing the necessary knowledge and skills to launch and manage their own projects, solar energy programmes empower communities to become self-reliant and drive local development through the implementation of sustainable economic initiatives.
In Lahj, Yemen, Abdulmalik Mansour is installing a light bulb in a market booth as part of the HEAL program. This UNDP - supported and Kuwait Fund - funded initiative uses clean energy to improve the livelihoods of local community members.
About the HEAL Project
With support from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the HEAL Project addresses the lack of access to energy in health facilities as well as the lack of income opportunities for women and youth in in Aden, Lahj, Abyan, Sana’a and Hajjah governorates. The project also promotes economic empowerment models for women and youth through the use of solar micro-grids.
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