Clean and green: Solar-powered health care in Central African Republic - Doctors Without Borders

Breaking the dependence on diesel generators

Before the introduction of these solar systems, most hospitals supported by MSF relied entirely on diesel generators, while health centers simply had no electricity at all. In Batangafo, for instance, the hospital consumed around 800 gallons of fuel per month, while in Bossangoa, consumption reached almost 1,500 gallons a month, at an average cost of around $13 per gallon.

Today, the hybrid solar installations provide hospitals with stable, clean, and autonomous energy, while drastically reducing fuel and generator maintenance costs. This transition also limits dependence on diesel, for which transport to remote areas remains complex and expensive. Beyond the economic and logistical benefits, it has brought about a significant reduction in the carbon footprint, contributing to environmental protection and the long-term sustainability of medical activities.

“Since the system was commissioned six months ago, the hospital has not needed to rely solely on diesel generators—electricity is available continuously, day and night” says Clément Dakha, radiology technician at Batangafo Hospital.