OnePower Lesotho

Unlocking Productive Uses of Energy for Women in Lesotho

This project aims to advance inclusive and productive use of energy by catalysing a women-led productive use of electricity company (PUECO) in Lesotho. The PUECO will support the creation of women-owned local enterprises and develop a last-mile supply chain for energy efficient appliances in three communities served by OnePower solar mini-grids. The PUECO will provide local women entrepreneurs with training and starting capital to become anchor customers for the mini-grids. Local women in these communities will also be recruited to retail energy efficient appliances. EEP Africa financing will enable One Power to pilot this model and demonstrate the value of integrating a PUECO with mini-grid construction.

Outcome and Impact

The project will support 12 women entrepreneurs to create energy-enabled businesses in three communities, serving a population of more than 5,000 people. The project also aims to distribute over 450 energy efficient appliances and create 40 new jobs, with 70% earmarked for women. If successful, this model will be replicated and scaled-up to 10 new mini-grids that OnePower is developing in Lesotho.

Download the project fact sheet >>