Rwanda Energy Company Ltd (REC) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of RIG, focused on peat production and methane gas extraction as energy resources for Rwanda.
Powering Rwanda Through Energy Innovation
REC operates across two main areas: peat mining and methane gas extraction from Lake Kivu. These complementary energy sectors position the company as a critical player in Rwanda's energy landscape, contributing to national energy security and economic development.
Since its establishment, Rwanda Energy Company has been driven by a mission to harness Rwanda's abundant natural resources for sustainable power generation. Through strategic operations in both peat and methane gas, REC delivers reliable energy solutions that support industrial growth and rural electrification across the country.
Pioneering Peat Production
The company started peat mining in 2009, becoming Rwanda's pioneering large-scale bio-peat producer. With Rwanda holding approximately 2.6 billion tons of wet peat reserves, REC recognized the enormous potential of this resource early on and invested in the infrastructure and expertise needed to develop it at scale.
Today, REC maintains a production capacity between 38,000-50,000 tons of peat per annum at its extraction sites in Gishoma, Mashya, and Rwabusoro. These strategically located sites ensure a steady and reliable supply of peat fuel to industrial clients across Rwanda, most notably to cement manufacturers and other energy-intensive industries.
Methane Gas Extraction from Lake Kivu
In addition to peat mining, Rwanda Energy Company also manages methane gas resources from Lake Kivu. The lake holds an extraordinary 65 billion cubic metres of methane gas dissolved in its deep waters, representing one of the most significant untapped energy resources on the African continent.
The extraction of methane from Lake Kivu serves a dual purpose: generating clean energy for Rwanda while simultaneously reducing the environmental risk posed by the accumulation of dissolved gases in the lake. REC's involvement in this sector underscores its commitment to innovative and responsible energy development.
A Vision for Energy Independence
Rwanda Energy Company continues to expand its operations and invest in new technologies to increase production efficiency and reduce environmental impact. As Rwanda pursues its ambitious development agenda, REC stands as a vital contributor to the nation's energy independence, providing affordable and sustainable fuel sources that power economic growth.
Through continued investment in both peat and methane gas sectors, REC is helping build a more resilient and diversified energy portfolio for Rwanda, ensuring that the country's energy needs are met today and well into the future.
