PAYG

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.

Almost half a billion people are served by the off-grid solar industry, and a growing number of these via Pay-as-you-go (PAYGo) asset financing. For many consumers, not only is the solar product their first access to modern energy but it may also be their first access to finance. The impact of this can be huge – the 60 Decibels Energy Benchmark reveals that 92% of consumers report an improvement in quality of life after purchasing their off-grid solar (OGS) product. On the other hand, consumers of OGS are exposed to product, service, and financial risk that companies must mitigate and balance with sustainable growth objectives. 

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.

Solar support is on the way for businesses and communities struggling to cope as the coronavirus outbreak ripples across the continent.

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.

The latest in a series of high profile renewable energy acquisitions for the French energy giant, ENGIE has announced the acquisition of a 100% stake in Fenix International, a U.S. company active in the residential lease-to-own sector in several African countries.

Acquisitions within the off-grid solar space are still rare. Mobisol recently acquired Lumeter for their software capability, opportunities for product expansion, and data on customer repayment.