The vice president of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Ambroise Fayolle announced the signature of $25million in financing with d.light design to strengthen access to energy in Africa via solar kits that do not require a grid, are easy to use and inexpensive for users thanks to a pre-payment system. Particular emphasis will be placed on rural and suburban populations and micro-entrepreneurs.
The installation of these off-grid solar systems with d.light will initially take place in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda.
This EU financing will enable d.light design to develop the installation of solar kits – including not only panels and lamps but also low-energy equipment (radios, TVs, etc.) – in sub-Saharan Africa with the ambitious goal of reaching 10 million solar installations within five years.
“I am delighted that the EIB has signed this new financing with d.light in Africa for an off-grid solar project that will have a major economic and social impact on people and micro-entrepreneurs,” said EIB Vice-President AmbroiseFayolle. “The EU bank is determined to implement the Paris climate agreement and to cooperate to achieve the sustainable development goals, particularly when it comes to ensuring access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy for all. With its unique technical and financial expertise in the support of solar projects, the EIB will mobilize new investments to develop renewable energies in Africa.”