Enabling access to solar power for vulnerable communities in South Africa
Affordable Solar Solutions
Eskom, South Africa’s national electricity supplier, has proposed tariff increases of 66% over the next three years. If implemented, these will hit South Africans hard, but the poor are likely to be most affected. While middle-class consumers have the option of solar power, this has, to date, been out of reach for poorer segments of society. Ener-G-Africa (EGA) is aiming to change this by providing small, affordable solar solutions.
How EGA is improving the lives of people in Africa
Our solar solutions stand out from typical household solar systems due to their affordability, user-centric design, and tailored features that address the unique needs of low-income households and small businesses.
For example, take the story of Mr Henrick Jansen and his wife Franses, who live, without access to electricity, in an informal settlement in South Africa’s Western Cape province. Franses has suffered two strokes, making it difficult for her to walk and perform basic tasks. The elderly couple relies on their pensions for survival.
EGA supplied the Jansens with two stoves: our FAB stove (which burns eco-friendly biomass pellets as fuel and has a built-in fan powered by a solar-charged power bank) and our MAFECS (stove that uses small sticks of wood, biomass pellets or even charcoal if you have the geopolymer insert). In addition to the 20W solar panel and power bank, EGA also provided them with two LED lights.
“The FAB stove has had a major impact in Franses’ life, as it allows her to cook comfortably while sitting on her bed, whilst also keeping their home warm,” says Louise Williamson, Project and Implementation Manager at EGA. “The power bank, powers their radio, enabling them to listen to their favourite music and bringing them immense joy. Meanwhile, Henrick takes great pride in his new possessions and has designated special spots to hang the solar panels for charging. He has also observed a significant reduction in the amount of wood he needs to collect since using the MAFECS, saving them money and allowing them to enjoy a smoke-free home and a better quality of life.”
This case study illustrates how EGA’s thoughtfully designed energy solutions are not just addressing power needs but are catalysts for comprehensive lifestyle improvements in communities often overlooked by mainstream energy providers.
How we are working to broaden solar access
We are currently exploring flexible payment options, including low-interest instalment plans, to reduce our customers’ upfront costs and make solar systems more accessible to underserved communities.
Additionally, EGA is seeking partnerships with corporations and NGOs to integrate solar systems into social development and corporate investment programmes. These collaborations could enable subsidised or free distribution to communities most in need.
By combining affordable pricing, innovative payment models, strategic partnerships and community engagement, EGA aims to bridge the energy gap in underserved areas.
