NAIROBI, KENYA – Power Africa announced an investment of $250,000 in two renewable energy companies to increase access to productive use of energy technologies in East Africa.

Productive use of energy refers to the use of energy in ways that earn income or generate other benefits such as agricultural processing, irrigation, refrigeration, use of power tools, machines, or devices that increase productivity and improve people’s lives. 

Through its Empower East and Central Africa program, Power Africa is awarding grants to Simusolar

and SureChill

to distribute solar-powered irrigation and refrigeration solutions to underserved regions in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda to boost productive use of energy. 

Power Africa Acting Coordinator, Ted Lawrence, announced the grant winners during the eighth Global Off-Grid Solar Forum and Expo

(GOGSFE) in Nairobi, Kenya.

“We are pleased to award grants to two visionary renewable energy companies, Simusolar and SureChill, whose work is transforming communities. By providing sustainable clean energy solutions, Simusolar is helping farmers increase productivity with reliable water access, and SureChill is ensuring safe storage of essential goods like vaccines and fresh produce, in communities beyond the grid and underserved areas. Simusolar and SureChill are improving both livelihoods and public health, driving communities and individuals toward a more sustainable and resilient future,” said Ted Lawrence.

Simusolar, a Tanzania-based company, provides solar-powered irrigation systems, allowing farmers in Tanzania and Uganda to ensure a consistent water supply for crops and livestock, and reduce reliance on fossil fuel-powered generators. Simusolar’s financing plans with flexible credit makes the technology accessible and affordable, enabling farmers to acquire and pay for the equipment over time. Simusolar will apply the funding to reach more women farmers in Tanzania with technologies to improve incomes and food security.

“Power Africa’s support will allow Simusolar to increase the productivity and incomes of farmers in Tanzania. Through a combination of partnership along the value chain, awareness creation, and irrigation pump distribution and financing, Simusolar will boost farmer yields and exports,” said Vincent Sseremba, Simusolar Chief Executive Officer for Strategy and Operations. 

SureChill’s technology maintains low temperatures, even during power outages. The company’s solutions are geared towards healthcare facilities and businesses that operate off-grid or in areas with unreliable electricity supply. SureChill plans to apply the funding to expand to northern Kenya and other underserved regions with significant electrification challenges within Kenya to improve the preservation of vital goods, such as vaccines and perishable foods.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant from Power Africa. Their support and guidance in helping us unlock local markets in Kenya is invaluable. It is great to work with a partner who shares our passion and commitment to provide access to sustainable energy and life-enhancing appliances,” said Emilien Di Gennaro, SureChill Chief Executive Officer.

These Power Africa grants are the first in their latest series of funding rounds planned to increase private-sector involvement in boosting access to clean and affordable energy for households, human services, and productive use of energy in East and Central Africa.