During the recent Open Day on Electric Mobility — held under the theme “Accelerating Electric Mobility in Burundi” a groundbreaking announcement marked a turning point in the country’s journey toward clean transportation:

Burundi’s very first 100% solar-powered electric vehicle charging station is about to go live.

GEM E-mobility, a subsidiary of Growth Energy, proudly took part in the event, with its CEO, Evrard HAVYARIMANA, sharing this bold vision for the future of e-mobility:

“This station will be powered entirely by solar panels, allowing it to remain operational even during power outages. With built-in storage capabilities, it will have enough reserves to operate throughout the night.”

In a context where frequent electricity shortages and fuel supply issues pose daily challenges, finding resilient, alternative energy solutions is no longer optional — it’s essential.

By combining electric mobility with solar energy, this initiative brings a practical, forward-thinking solution tailored to Burundi’s unique energy landscape.

This charging station — designed and built entirely by the teams at Growth Energy — is more than just infrastructure. It’s a symbol of transformation.
🔋 Fully solar-powered, it allows EVs to charge independently of the national grid.
🌙 Thanks to its energy storage system, it remains operational day and night, even during long outages.
🌱 And most importantly, it contributes to reducing CO₂ emissions and promoting clean, accessible mobility across the country.

This milestone is just the beginning of a new era. It reflects a shared commitment to a greener, more inclusive future for transportation in Burundi.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated partners:
The Ministry of Commerce and Transport of Burundi, for their leadership in supporting sustainable mobility,
And Skyline, a trailblazer in electric vehicle sales, whose pioneering role has helped make this visionary event a reality.

At GEM E-mobility and Growth Energy, we believe the energy transition should be local, inclusive, and immediate.
This first solar-powered EV charging station marks a bold step forward — and we’re just getting started. 🚀

After five incredible years of growth, bold initiatives, and meaningful impact, we’re proud to turn the page to a new and exciting chapter. Today, we unveil our new identity:

Welcome to Solio Group.

A name that truly reflects who we are today and the future we are building: sustainable, connected, and innovation-driven.

This rebranding is more than just a change of name. “Solio” brings together “solar,” our core expertise, with “io,” a nod to the digital world and the power of intelligent connectivity. It captures the essence of what we do best: combining solar energy, electric mobility, and digital transformation to tackle the major challenges of our time.

From Africa to North America, Solio Group delivers smart, scalable solutions for a more sustainable world.
Our teams are committed to bringing innovation where it matters most on the ground, with real-world impact. Whether it’s:
🔋 Launching the first-ever electric vehicle charging station in Burundi,
🌍 Supporting Fumba Town in Zanzibar in its mission to become a 100% energy-independent community,
💡 Or designing and deploying tailored digital solutions for evolving cities and communities.

This new identity marks a fresh beginning but our values remain unchanged: boldness, impact, collaboration, and innovation.
Our mission continues with even greater determination: to transform regions, connect energy systems, and build a sustainable future together.

Solio Group – Powering tomorrow.

On the ground in Zanzibar, our CEO Evrard HAVYARIMANA and Managing Director John Okoro are fully immersed in preparing the foundation for an exciting and ambitious launch.

They’re not just overseeing operations from a distance, they’re meeting with local teams, engaging with partners, and ensuring every detail reflects our shared vision. Together, they’re setting the stage for a transformation that will make history.

Fumba Town — a 150-acre sustainable mixed-use development led by CPS Africa is on a bold mission: to become a fully energy-independent community. And at Growth Energy, we’re proud to be the chosen partner driving this transformation forward, in close collaboration with all stakeholders on the ground.

But this isn’t just about infrastructure or technology. It’s about reshaping everyday life, empowering communities, and laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more resilient future.

Very soon, Fumba Town will be powered by greener, more sustainable energy. And we’re proud to help make that vision a reality. The excitement is real — and every step we take brings us closer to a new era of energy independence.

🎥 Watch the video for a recap of this inspiring event!

In Africa, as elsewhere, access to quality education is one of the keys to development. However, Africa, especially its rural areas, still needs more reliable energy infrastructure.

Even today, less than 50% of the rural population has access to electricity, directly affecting rural schools. This significantly limits students’ study time, hindering their success rates. Beyond the impact on learning quality, the lack of electricity also reduces the use of modern technologies, preventing students from learning about new technology-related subjects.

Mini-solar grids offer a promising solution to these challenges by providing sustainable and reliable energy. These systems can help reduce educational disparities and allow every child to learn in better conditions and succeed.

1/ Access to Energy: A Current Challenge for Education in Africa

According to the World Bank, the percentage of the rural population in Africa with access to electricity varies significantly, often well below 50%. This lack of access severely impacts many schools, greatly limiting their ability to use modern technologies. Without electricity, teachers cannot incorporate essential digital teaching tools to enhance students’ learning.

The lack of access to electricity exacerbates the challenging living conditions for students and teachers in rural areas. Many rely on traditional energy sources like kerosene lamps and diesel generators, which are expensive and dangerous. According to the AECF, kerosene lamps, and diesel generators are responsible for numerous fires and pose health risks due to toxic fume emissions. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions from these lamps far exceed health standards, causing respiratory illnesses among users (AECF) (LBL Energy Technologies Area).

In some regions, the absence of electricity has led to higher school dropout rates. A study showed that in rural schools without access to electricity, attendance and success rates are significantly lower than those equipped with reliable electrical systems (Brookings). Students often have to work during daylight, and those who help their families during the day have very little time for their studies, severely compromising their education.

Finally, the absence of electricity limits study hours to daylight, significantly reducing the time available for learning. This limitation directly impacts students’ academic performance and success rates. Students cannot study after nightfall, which is particularly problematic for those who must help their families during the day and only have the evening to devote to their studies.

2/ Mini Solar Grids: A Transformative Solution for Education in Africa

A mini solar grid is an autonomous system that uses solar panels to generate and distribute electricity. It is particularly well-suited for rural areas, offering a reliable, sustainable, and less expensive energy source than diesel generators.

Impact in East Africa

In some rural schools, mini solar grids have significantly improved learning conditions by extending study hours and increasing student engagement, thereby boosting success rates.

Uganda

A study indicates that mini-solar grids have transformed education in rural schools in Uganda. These installations enable students to study in the evening, increasing school success rates by 35%. Additionally, energy costs for the school have decreased by 50%, allowing these funds to be reallocated to other educational needs.

Tanzania

The Ensol project has electrified over 3,000 homes and several schools in Tanzania, benefiting around 2,000 students. A school with 900 students has seen improved grades due to extended study hours

Mali

In Mali, the Rural Energy Services Foundation (FRES) has installed mini solar grids for approximately 9,600 households, benefiting 1,500 students. This electrification has enabled children to study in the evening, increasing school success rates by 25%. Additionally, communities have reduced their domestic energy costs by 30% thanks to solar energy【RVO.nl】.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The IFC’s Scaling Mini-Grid (SMG) program is mobilizing $400 million to electrify rural areas in the DRC through mini-solar grids. This program plans to install 180 MW of solar capacity to provide reliable electricity to 1.5 million people, including schools. Access to electricity could increase school enrollment rates by 20%, improve learning conditions, and reduce energy costs.

Mini solar grids are a key solution to overcoming energy and educational challenges in Africa, providing reliable and sustainable energy that transforms students’ learning experience in rural areas.

Growth Energy is committed to developing mini solar grid projects in partnership with local and international organizations across Africa. Our projects maximize social and educational impact, improving access to education and promoting the economic development of rural communities.

🌍 Want to participate in this transformative movement? 

👉 Contact us to learn more and join our mission!

Have you ever considered the impact of solar energy on local economies and communities in Africa? Renewable energy is emerging as an unstoppable force on the continent, propelling it towards a brighter and more sustainable future. In just a decade, its renewable energy capacity has doubled to an impressive 62.1 gigawatts, now representing nearly a quarter of the total electricity production capacity.

It’s a true energy revolution underway, marked by the spectacular rise of solar power. From 1.66 gigawatts in 2014, it has skyrocketed to 13.47 gigawatts by the end of last year. This rapid growth speaks to a profound and promising shift, paving the way for a greener and more prosperous future for Africa.

Dive into the world of solar projects in West and South Africa, and let’s explore together their social and economic impact in these regions, as well as in East Africa. Some of the initiatives mentioned are reshaping the continent’s energy landscape and painting a bright future for its inhabitants.

Renewable Energy Projects in Africa

Flagship Projects in West Africa

In West Africa, ECOWAS, through its renewable energy policy, aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the regional energy mix to 48% by 2030. Thanks to the Clean Energy Corridor Initiative, significant projects are underway to integrate power plants into West African energy systems.

The RESPITE project (Regional Emergency Solar Energy Intervention Project) was launched in 2022 in four African countries: Liberia, Sierra Leone, Chad, and Togo. Financed by the World Bank with $311 million, this project aims to increase grid-connected renewable energy capacity and strengthen regional integration. It includes the installation and operation of 106 megawatts of solar photovoltaic energy with battery storage, as well as the expansion of 41 megawatts of hydroelectric capacity. RESPITE will help improve electricity supply reliability, mitigate the energy crisis, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it will support the efforts of the West Africa Power Pool to enhance electricity trade in the region.

Another significant project, this time in the Central African Republic: a 25-megawatt solar park with battery storage, located in Danzi, on the outskirts of Bangui, was launched in November 2023. This initiative, supported by the World Bank, will replace over 90% of the previously diesel-produced energy while generating over $4 million annually for the national electricity company. Furthermore, it will contribute to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, with 670,674 fewer tonnes emitted.

But that’s not all. This project seamlessly integrates into the Electricity Access and Strengthening Program (PARSE), an ambitious initiative aimed at electrifying the peripheral regions of Bangui. Through mini-grid projects and the distribution of solar kits for households, public institutions, and businesses, PARSE promises to profoundly transform the electricity sector and, by extension, the daily lives of Central Africans.

In Senegal, the West African Development Bank (BOAD) approved a $24 million loan for the Niakhar Solar Power project, launched in 2022. This project includes a 15 MW/45 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) and 30 MW of photovoltaic solar panels. It will enable shifting solar energy to periods of high demand, providing ancillary services to the power grid, and selling electricity to SENELEC, Senegal’s state-owned electricity company.

South Africa: The Powerful Solar Projects Xina Solar One and Karoshoek Solar One

In the South African energy landscape, the top 10 solar projects are predominantly concentrated in the abundantly sunny region of the Northern Cape. For instance, Xina Solar One, associated with the Kaxu Solar One complex near Pofadder in the Northern Cape, boasts an impressive capacity of 100 MW, utilizing cylindrical-parabolic collectors and a thermal storage system.

Similarly, Karoshoek Solar One, just 30 km east of Upington, also offers a power output of 100 MW through rows of cylindrical solar panels, known as “troughs,” which concentrate sunlight onto a receiver tube filled with heat transfer fluid. These installations, among others, underscore South Africa’s growing commitment to renewable energies, significantly contributing to the country’s energy capacity.

From the plains of the West to the shores of Southern Africa, renewable energy projects bear witness to the continent’s increasing dedication to a sustainable future. With each initiative, Africa demonstrates its ability to innovate and thrive in the energy transition. This movement not only promises a transformation of energy systems but also significant economic and social progress. Africa is thus positioning itself as a leader in the transition towards a cleaner and more prosperous energy future.

Social and Economic Impact of Solar Energy in Africa

Energy poverty affects not only households but also businesses and the national economies of African countries. Each year, governments spend around $11 billion to cover the losses of national enterprises and import nearly $10 billion worth of fossil fuels, thereby reinforcing their energy dependence and increasing costs for consumers.

Despite the enormous potential of renewable energies, access to electricity remains a major challenge for many inhabitants of sub-Saharan Africa. 

Indeed, between 2.5 and 3.4 million households in South Africa, representing between 4.5 and 6% of the population, still lack access to electricity. In Nigeria, despite its position as the leading oil producer in Africa, 50% of the population, or 93 million people, do not have access to electricity. These alarming figures highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat energy poverty and promote sustainable development in Africa.

Let’s explore together the actors who are investing in providing renewable energy solutions, such as solar energy, to transform the continent’s energy situation.

Promoting Solar Energy in East Africa: Growth Supply’s Commitment in Burundi

Between 2021 and 2023, thanks to the investment by Growth Supply, the parent company of Growth Energy, solar kit distribution projects have illuminated the lives of nearly 37,000 people in Burundi and East Africa. These initiatives, with a total capacity of over 7 megawatts, have provided essential access to reliable electricity, creating economic and educational opportunities while strengthening the social fabric.

West Africa: Empowering Women through Solar Sister and REES Africa in Nigeria

Micro-solar grids are transforming entire lives by offering affordable and reliable energy. For women and young girls, this means more than just light: it’s access to financial autonomy.

Since its establishment in 2017, REES Africa has provided solar energy to over 6,000 people in the most disadvantaged regions of Nigeria. Through these micro-solar grids, which can power up to 100 households each, significant improvements are being made in rural communities. Additionally, Solar Sister, a US-based non-governmental organization, has trained over 3,000 women entrepreneurs in Nigeria over the past nine years.

South Africa: Municipal Initiatives for Disadvantaged Populations

The expansion of solar energy among disadvantaged populations in South Africa, supported by the FBAE program, is generating positive economic and social impacts. By providing domestic solar systems to nearly 150,000 households in 2022, municipalities have reduced reliance on traditional energy sources, promoting better health and stimulating local economic development.

In summary, the adoption of renewable energies, particularly solar energy, in Africa brings about profound changes in the living conditions of populations by providing reliable access to electricity, especially to the most vulnerable communities. Additionally, it economically empowers women and contributes to reducing energy poverty on the continent.

Renewable energy propels Africa towards a greener and more dynamic future. This transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources is made possible through the commitment of various stakeholders, such as the World Bank and regional banks, as well as private companies like Growth Supply and NGOs like Solar Sister and REES Africa. It not only stimulates economic development but also improves access to electricity for thousands of households, paving the way for a more prosperous future.

Join our movement for a more sustainable future by visiting our solar program here!

In sub-Saharan Africa, over 600 million people live without electricity, and nearly 940 million rely on harmful fuels for cooking. This situation leads to approximately 2.6 million premature deaths annually, with 490,000 related to indoor air pollution, mainly affecting women and children. Lack of access to energy entraps populations in poverty and impacts all aspects of life, including women’s health, education, and income.

But access to clean energy can change this reality. Let’s explore how it could impact women’s empowerment in these regions.

In this article, we will delve into these issues, highlighting existing programs working to promote access to clean and sustainable energy for women, thus offering a brighter and more promising future for the region.

The impact of Access to Clean Energy on Women’s Empowerment in Africa

Have you ever imagined your daily life without access to clean electricity?

Now, imagine Fatou. Every evening, Fatou returns home in darkness, unable to perform her tasks safely. Without light, even the simplest tasks become challenges. She must draw water from the well in the darkness, hoping the water is clean. In her dim kitchen, Fatou cooks over a charcoal fire, inhaling toxic fumes each time, suffocating her. The health risks are high, but she has no other choice. Her children study by the flickering light of candles, their education suffering.

The lack of access to clean electricity affects not only Fatou’s household but also her economic opportunities. Without access to modern technologies, she cannot increase her productivity or explore other sources of income. Her domestic chores consume much of her time, as without electrical appliances, each task is laborious and time-consuming. She dreams of having more time for herself, to learn new skills, to engage in her community. But for now, she is trapped in her domestic obligations, contributing to the vicious cycle of gender inequality.

In her sub-Saharan African village, outdated infrastructure and unreliable power grids often hinder progress. Insufficient production capacity, poor transmission and distribution to users, high connection fees, unpredictable income flows, and high tariffs discourage consumers from adopting modern energy services.

In this context, solar solutions present themselves as a considerably advantageous alternative. Especially in rural areas where over 80% of people lack electricity, mini-grids and standalone systems, primarily based on solar energy, emerge as the most viable solutions. In the continuation of our exploration, we will highlight existing initiatives and programs aimed at providing women with access to solar energy, thus offering promising prospects for their empowerment in the region.

Growth & Shine: Transforming Lives, Empowering Communities

To address energy access issues, programs like “Growth & Shine” have been created. Sandrine GAHIMBARE, developer of the Growth & Shine program at Growth Energy, explains how this program contributes to women’s empowerment through clean energy.

The Growth & Shine program, developed by the Growth Supply group through its subsidiary Growth Energy, aims to promote renewable energy in Africa, with a focus on solar energy. It encourages the use of productive solar kits to stimulate income-generating activities, especially in agribusiness, while empowering local communities.

This program relies on a collaborative ecosystem involving financial institutions, development partners, and business incubators. It facilitates access to financial services for the purchase of solar kits and supports micro-enterprises. This approach ensures lasting impact and contributes to the economic empowerment of beneficiaries.

Combining renewable energy and women’s entrepreneurship

Among the main features of this program is the emphasis on social inclusion and the participation of women and youth.

“Our program integrates the promotion of renewable energy, support for local businesses, training, and empowerment of populations. It stands out for its commitment to social inclusion, the participation of women and youth, with an approach focused on community development.”

How does your program aim to support sustainable development and empower local communities?

“We aim to create ecosystems conducive to affordable access to solar kits, specifically targeting cooperatives and women’s groups to promote women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment.”

What message would you like to convey to those interested in your program or wishing to engage in similar initiatives?

“Join us in our mission to promote renewable energy for sustainable development in Africa, with a particular focus on women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment. Together, we can create a positive and lasting impact for local communities and the environment.”

Access to clean energy is a crucial lever for women’s empowerment in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite persistent challenges, initiatives like “Growth & Shine” offer promising solutions. Together, we can create a lasting impact for local communities and the environment by promoting women’s entrepreneurship and clean energy!

Financial institutions or business incubators based in Africa, you can participate in this unique program today. Join the initiative now!

The organizers held the 7th International Trade Fair and Conference on Power, Energy, Renewable, and Electrical Industry, also known as Powerelec Nigeria, at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island Annex, Lagos, from 20th to 22nd February 2024. This year’s theme was ‘Vision to Action: Pioneering Sustainable Power Solutions for Economic Growth in Africa’. The event was the largest in West Africa, attracting over 120 exhibitors, 500 pre-registered buyers, and 5000 trade visitors from various countries and sectors.

Redefining Solar Projects Deployment

The Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the African Solar Industry Association, and the Federation of Indian Export Organizations supported the event. The event also featured country pavilions from India, Turkey, and China, showcasing their latest products and technologies.

Growth Energy participated as a leading international renewable energy company. With operations and teams across Nigeria, Burundi, and Tanzania (Zanzibar), covering East and West Africa, we are redefining the way solar projects are deployed for industries and gated estates. We leverage cutting-edge technology, machine learning, and advanced IoT integration in our projects.

The Managing Director of Growth Energy, Mr. John Okoro represented the company in interactions with business partners, company owners, and other industry stakeholders, and was accompanied by its local partner Reomond, represented by Mr. Olumide Oluwole, Director of Operations. 

Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Potential

Growth Energy had the pleasure of attending the summit with Empower New Energy whose CEO, Mr Terje Osmundsen delivered a keynote address during the session which focused on ‘Tips and Tricks to get your Solar Projects Finance’. During his Keynote address, he highlighted key requirements for financing solar projects for industries and businesses, including land requirements, KYC checks, and payment risk assessment, among others. 

“We certainly need to examine vested interests surrounding diesel theft, which despite clear examples of the viability of solar power, have left many industries burdened by rising diesel costs and the diminishing availability of grid electricity. The reliability of grid electricity is hampered by below-cost reflective grid tariffs.”

Nigeria’s electricity regulatory environment has improved over the years, and actors agree that the market has a huge growth potential, no one is yet even scratching the surface of the market potential. 

Growth Energy’s participation at the 7th Edition of the Powerelec Nigeria Conference, along with our financing partner and local partner, is a re-affirmation of our Company’s commitment to working in collaboration with private and public sector partners to improve the sustainability of industries and our cities, in line with the UN sustainable development goals and the Africa 2063 agenda.