Nairobi, Kenya is rapidly becoming a hub for innovative companies operating in the energy sector, particularly those making strides in renewable and clean energy options. These pioneers are not only focusing on improving energy access and affordability but are also capitalizing on the immense potential for solar power in the region. They offer innovative business models, such as pay-as-you-go and rent-to-own payment structures, which make their products and services available to a wider audience. This article takes a closer look at some of these companies, their founders, and the work they do.
Sun King
Founded by Anish Thakkar, Mayank Sekhsaria, and T. Patrick Walsh, Sun King is a solar company that designs, distributes, installs, and finances solar home systems, inverter systems, and portable lanterns. What sets them apart is their innovative pay-as-you-go financing option which removes the need for high upfront costs, thereby making their products more accessible to consumers. You can learn more about their work through their social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
CrossBoundary
CrossBoundary is a financial platform that aggregates finance for medium scale renewable self-generation in Africa. Founded by Jake Cusack and Matt Tilleard, the company recently formed CrossBoundary Energy, the first dedicated investment fund for Commercial and Industrial solar in Africa. You can follow CrossBoundary on LinkedIn and Twitter to stay updated about their latest projects.
Sanergy
Fighting the sanitation crisis in Africa’s urban slums, Sanergy has made hygienic sanitation affordable and accessible. Sanergy repurposes waste collected from the sanitation centers they build into valuable by-products such as organic fertilizer and renewable energy. Interested readers can follow their progress on LinkedIn, Facebook, and @sanergy.
SunFunder
SunFunder, founded by Audrey Desiderato, Ryan Levinson, and Sameer Halai, is a solar energy finance business dedicated to providing financing for solar assets in emerging economies. They offer investors an opportunity to diversify their portfolios with high-impact, fixed income debt offerings in emerging market solar investments. Connect with them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Opibus
Founded by Filip Gardler, Opibus develops and manufactures electric mobility solutions aimed at accelerating the transition to sustainable mobility in emerging markets. They offer proprietary EV powertrain systems, electric motorcycles, power generation systems, and charging infrastructures. Stay updated via their LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages.
Powerhive
Co-founded by Chris Hornor and Rik Wuts, Powerhive offers key tools and services for rural electrification projects in energy access markets offering large scale and retrofitting solutions for existing mini-grids. You can follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Powergen Renewable Energy
PowerGen Renewable Energy is a developer, builder, and operator of solar mini-grids across Africa founded by Alastair Smith, Mark Wopicho, and Sam Slaughter. They have support from various sector leaders, including Shell, Acumen, Omidyar Network, Sumitomo, DOB Equity, ElectriFI, REPP, and the Rockefeller Foundation. Connect with them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Solar Panda
Solar Panda is a Pay-As-You-Go Solar Home System provider providing clean, affordable solar energy to rural African communities without access to electricity. Founded by Andy Keith, Solar Panda enables customers to pay in small installments. They can be followed on Facebook.
Deevabits Green Energy
Under founder David Wanjau, Deevabits Green Energy works toward providing equitable access to basic goods and services, distributing and financing essential products to rural customers. They offer a pay-as-you-go model to remove the barrier of upfront payment. Connect with them on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
Pawame
Founded by Alexandre Allegue, Majd Chaaya, and Nick Sparks, Pawame’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of off-grid communities by providing energy and other life-changing products and services. They follow an innovative rent-to-own, pay-as-you-go business model. Find out more about their latest developments on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Serengeti Energy
Finally, Serengeti Energy invests in and co-develops small and medium-sized renewable energy projects, working toward the beneficial impact on the community. They offer design, build, and operation services for new and renovated independent power plants. Serengeti Energy can be followed on LinkedIn and Twitter.
In conclusion, Nairobi’s energy sector is teeming with companies striving to innovate, influence, and leave a positive mark on the environment. Above all, their mission is to make clean and renewable energy sources accessible and affordable for all, paving the way towards a brighter future for everyone.
