Renewable Energy Generation & Green Hydrogen

Engine for progress: why renewables are the key to a sustainable future

David Lecoque, CEO, ARE

Access to energy remains a pervasive issue worldwide, with approximately 10% of the global population still lacking it (IEA, 2022 ). Tackling this problem involves navigating complex policy, economic and geographical landscapes. Nonetheless, the rise of renewable electrification offers a beacon of hope in addressing these challenges and striving towards SDG 7.

Distributed renewable energy investments that spark a ripple effect in financing

In the developing world, where rural communities grapple with the lack of access to clean and reliable energy DRE solutions – mini-grids, biogas digesters, and solar systems – promise a brighter future powered by clean sources. However, financing these projects can be challenging due to perceived risk and limited capital in these regions. This is where early-stage investments play a crucial role in de-risking ventures and attracting larger funding. ElectriFI, the EU funded Electrification Financing initiative, managed by EDFI Management Company, acts as a catalyst for the growth of promising DRE companies.?Read more

Rutten NES’ innovative hydropneumatics storage technology project in S?o Tomé and Príncipe

One of the problems often encountered with off-grid systems is the premature ageing and failure of the electrochemical storage unit (batteries). Because of the high and often unfunded cost of replacement, these systems often stop working properly within a few years and end up being abandoned, depriving users of electrical service. Read more

Transforming battery replacement for C&I customers across Africa

enee.io ?develops remote energy monitoring systems in areas with inadequate grid that grants companies and distributed energy providers visibility into multiple site performance from one centralised dashboard. Regardless of a batteries manufacturer, make or model, the enee.io system seamlessly integrates with any new or existing energy systems. Read more

GFM installs solar-powered pumping system in north Senegal

In April 2024, GFM FOTOVOLTAICA?in collaboration with ONGAWA installed three solar-powered pumping demonstrators for stable and clean water provision in northern Senegal. Solar modules were introduced on an agrovoltaic scheme, reducing the high impact of evapotranspiration from their own local crops. The project was supported by the Spanish Cooperation (AECID) to promote access to water, sanitation and hygiene human rights. Read more

Catalytic mini-grid asset financing for RBF grantees in Africa

Since 2021, SustainSolar ?has successfully piloted vendor-based asset financing deals for 10 rural electrification projects utilising SustainSolar turnkey power systems electrifying mini-grids, health clinics, and PURE applications – in Lesotho, Sierra Leone, and Uganda. This scalable asset finance model was developed by SustainSolar (with support from GET.invest) to bridge construction finance needs of off-grid and mini-grid developers with results-based grants – thereby eliminating developers’ fundraising needs for the power system portion of such projects. Read more

Replacing batteries with hydrogen in off-grid Malaysia

Rural Sarawak generally rely on diesel generators that are both costly and polluting, often failing after 4 to 5 years due to poor servicing and maintenance. Solar battery (lead acid) hybrid systems have been deployed in some off-grid facilities to reduce generator reliance. Read more

News

• ARE highlights the potential of rural mini-grids at the Future of Energy Summit in Amsterdam
• ARE delegation at the Uganda-EU Business Forum
• ARE advocates for clean energy access at Africa Energy Indaba
• ARE on the power of off-grid renewable solutions at Transforming Energy Access Forum in Kigali
• ARE on doubling down efforts to deliver SDG 7 at the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue
• CORE trains government & electric cooperatives in the Philippines on solar hybrid mini-grid system design
• ARE contributes to the Mini-grid Business Podcast
• ARE on the need to increase access to energy at the Innovation Summit
• Photo contest: Impact of Team Europe’s efforts in DRE
• ARE on tripling renewables at the 14th IRENA General Assembly
• ARE CEO David Lecoque advocates for sustainable energy access in engaging interview
• Investors & decision-makers meet in Lagos in May for the EAIF

Recent Publications

• CLEAN: State of Decentralised Renewable Energy Sector in India
• IRENA: Tracking COP28 outcomes: Tripling renewable power capacity by 2030

Newest ARE Members

You can contact the Communications & Marketing Department of the Alliance for Rural Electrification to contribute to the next ARE Newsletter.