Rwandan utility raises rates by 20% in bid for self-sustainability

3 August 2012 – The recent rise in electricity tariffs in Rwanda by 20% by the state run Energy, Water and Sanitation Authority (EWSA) has been unpopular among traders whose businesses entail the use of electricity as well as among general electricity consumers.

However, Rwanda made the politically unpopular move, and from July 1st 2012 the tariffs for domestic, commercial, medium and large industries increased from about US18.5c/kWh to about US22.2 c/kWh, as EWSA bids to be a self-sustaining entity. EWSA says that as a result of the increase, government subsidies would drop from about US$39.7 million a year to US$29.6 million a year.