Hard times for pay-as-you-go model
While sales of off-grid solar kits increased slightly in 2024, the market has not regained the momentum seen before 2022. The latest report from the industry’s professional association, Gogla, includes data for the first time on solar generators (38,000 units sold in 2024) and walk-in solar cold rooms (578 units).
Payment plans key for solar water pumping in Sub-Saharan Africa
If solar-powered irrigation pumps can be rolled out in a responsible manner at scale, the impact on agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa could be transformational.
African PAYG solar companies have hogged 72% of sector’s investment
The first post-pandemic update on the state of the world’s off-grid solar industry has painted a picture of domination by European companies, but highlighted the potential for new startups in West Africa and an increasing use of PV as a backup to unreliable grid supplies.
Bboxx cottons on to pay-as-you-go potential of Burkina Faso
The PAYG solar start-up, which is a darling of impact investors, has formed a joint venture with French cotton farming giant Geocoton to establish a foothold in Burkina Faso and says it is aiming to offer its solar home systems to 2 million customers.
Entire village in Malawi to receive solar in pilot project
It is hoped 100% solar home system installation–with householders able to buy, or lease on a PAYG basis–will offer a template for installation in remote communities across Africa.
Pay-as-you-go offer for offgrid solar, pay TV in Africa
Bboxx rents out offgrid PV systems and TVs to rural villagers across Africa. Customers can buy electricity under a mobile-based pay-as-you-go model.
PV relief for sub-Saharan Africa amid Covid-19 pandemic
Solar support is on the way for businesses and communities struggling to cope as the coronavirus outbreak ripples across the continent.
Congolese president makes off-grid renewables pledge
Félix Tshisekedi reportedly said he wants to use standalone energy units, such as solar home systems, to bring electricity to at least 21 million people in the next nine years.
Financing African projects remains a struggle
Innoenergy’s recent conference in Berlin repeated the argument financing renewable energy projects in Africa remains a struggle, however it also showcased some hopeful case studies.
Bboxx secures $8 million loan to boost Rwanda operations
The off-grid solar system supplier has received the finance in Rwandan francs to mitigate currency risk and expand operations in its biggest market.
