The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) project in Eswatini, a country in southern Africa, is aiming to provide universal energy access by 2030.

The project, financed by the World Bank, will help reach the remaining 12 per cent of the population with electricity, ensuring households in remote and disadvantaged areas benefit from improved access to energy and greater economic opportunities.

"This initiative is about the people of Eswatini, ensuring that every Liswati has access to electricity. Eswatini remains committed to universal energy access, as reaffirmed in our endorsement of the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration at the recent Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit," says Eswatini’s Deputy Prime Minister, Thulisile Dladla.

The project builds on the ongoing Network Reinforcement and Access Project Eswatini and follows an integrated approach for electrification following the country's Rural Electrification Plan and the National Energy Policy 2018.

The initiative will use both grid and off-grid solutions to expand energy access, particularly in underserved rural communities, unlocking economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for the country's people.

The project will also provide technical expertise for assessments and studies aimed at increasing energy security, improving the sector's financial viability, strengthening planning, and building capacity.

"The ASCENT Eswatini project deepens the World Bank’s engagement in supporting the country’s development priorities. Expanding energy access is vital for economic growth, better livelihoods, and improved service delivery. We remain committed to supporting Eswatini to achieve universal electricity access by 2030, aligning with global efforts for equitable and sustainable energy solutions," says World Bank Country Director for Eswatini, Satu Kahkonen.

ASCENT Eswatini is the ninth phase of the ASCENT programme developed by the World Bank for Eastern and Southern Africa.

"By addressing these critical areas, the ASCENT Eswatini project will not only bolster energy access but also play a pivotal role in advancing Eswatini’s development goals by improving living standards and fostering economic growth through the provision of reliable, inclusive, sustainable and clean energy," says Eswatini’s Minister of Economic Planning and Development, Thambo Gina.