As global oil markets continue to face instability due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Rwanda—currently importing 100% of its petrol and diesel—has been exploring long-term solutions to reduce its vulnerability to external shocks.
The CEO of Beam Global, Wheatley, visited Rwanda with a potential solution to a challenge affecting many nations worldwide.
Speaking to the media after meetings with senior officials from the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Rwanda Development Board, Wheatley highlighted the risks of relying entirely on imported energy.
“In today’s world, a single tweet can trigger a sudden spike in fuel prices. Rwanda imports 100% of the fuel it uses, meaning it is highly exposed to global events beyond its control,” he said.
To address this vulnerability, Wheatley explained that Beam Global’s solar-powered technology could play a critical role by leveraging renewable energy—particularly solar power.
These systems, already used by the U.S. military, are capable of charging a wide range of electric vehicles—from the more than 20,000 electric motorcycles currently operating on Kigali’s roads to large trucks.
“Rwanda is rich in renewable energy resources. That is your natural wealth—given by God, or by nature and innovation—and it exists right here in your country today,” he added.
Wheatley noted that Beam Global’s solutions are built on three core pillars: energy security through high-capacity battery storage, electrified mobility, and the development of smart cities.
He also confirmed that discussions are ongoing with both government and private sector stakeholders to expand the company’s operations in Rwanda—an initiative expected to create jobs and strengthen the country’s energy resilience.
Beam Global works with a wide range of partners, including governments, military institutions, commercial enterprises, and international organizations, to deploy fast, sustainable energy infrastructure.
The company operates in 23 countries across the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, and is among the leading contributors to the global transition toward electric mobility.
The CEO of the U.S.-based Beam Global, Wheatley, arrived in Rwanda with a solution to a challenge that continues to affect many countries
WATCH THE INTERVIEW WITH THE CEO OF BEAM GLOBAL