ENGIE Energy Access, Africa’s leading Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) and mini-grid solutions provider, has commenced construction of 15 solar mini-grids in Zambia’s Eastern Province. This initiative is part of the Increase Access to Electricity and Renewable Energy Production (IAEREP) programme, funded by the 11th European Development Fund and the European Union.
Expanding Solar Energy Solutions
ENGIE Energy Access is expanding off-grid solar energy solutions in Zambia, aiming to provide reliable electricity to underserved families and small businesses. This project will foster economic growth and improve socio-economic welfare in local communities. The solar energy market in Zambia is set to benefit significantly from this development.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Gillian-Alexandre Huart, CEO of ENGIE Energy Access, expressed excitement about this milestone. The company targets operating 60 mini-grids across five provinces by 2025. This project supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 7, by delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable clean energy to 40,000 people in rural areas. ENGIE’s work aligns with national electrification plans, promoting sustainable development and green energy policies.
Funding and Future Prospects
In 2023, MySol Grid Zambia, a unit of ENGIE Energy Access, secured a USD 7.5 million debt facility from the Facility for Energy Inclusion (FEI), managed by Cygnum Capital. This funding will enable the construction of a total of 60 mini-grids under the IAEREP programme. This investment marks a significant step for the mini-grid sector, attracting non-recourse long-term financing.
Operational Sites and Impact
The first sites include Lusinde, Kandongwa, Nyimba Mwana, Chidiwa, Chataika, Kanyanga, Petulo, Kasamba, Chidiwa, Mphole, Mung’omba, Kalambana, Mtore, Kondwelani, Lunga, and Luamphande. These sites are scheduled to be operational by the end of 2024. ENGIE Energy Access, established in Zambia in 2017, has over 250 employees, 650 independent sales agents, and more than 60 points of presence across the country. The company has sold over 300,000 solar home system kits and operates one mini-grid in Chitandika.
ENGIE Energy Access aims to impact 20 million lives across Africa by 2025, enhancing the solar technology landscape and promoting solar energy investment.
Source：africa.com
