Next Steps for 'Power Africa' - Turning Opportunities into Deals

Uncertainty surrounding one of President Obama's signature Africa policy initiatives was apparent this month when several hundred energy industry representatives gathered for this year's 'Powering Africa Summit'. While future policy remains undecided, market opportunities are massive, participants agreed. Challenges equally large.

When Power Africa first launched, we were focusing heavily on grid-level projects. But you look at the roadmap we just launched, only a portion of the connections are on grid, with plans to connect 25 million 30 million of homes and businesses through our Beyond the Grid initiative. Companies are creating systems that are beyond just two light bulbs and cellphone charger — they’re creating these super-efficient appliances. They’ve become appliance-leasing companies, allowing people who are living off the grid to approximate what life is like living on the grid by using DC-powered fans, televisions, clothing irons, and electric razors.

Women celebrating at the dedication of the Gbarnway Community Solar Electricity Pilot Project. The project is operated by the Gbarnway Woeyah Electric Cooperative.

Power Africa - Annual Report 2015

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