Zonke Energy

Piloting Meshed Mini-Grids and SHS for Informal South Africa

This project will introduce a hybrid business model that combines elements of energy-as-a-service with financed SHS purchases, to be piloted in the Qandu Qandu settlement in Cape Town. The project will establish 25 of their innovative solar towers, combining several essential components including solar PV panels, battery storage, battery protection, and remote monitoring capabilities, all housed within a 3-meter container. In addition, the company will distribute 250 SHS units through their partner, iShack. Incentives will be provided to encourage SHS owners to connect their systems to neighbouring solar tower, promoting a collaborative energy-sharing approach.

Outcome and Impact

The project aims to create 500 electricity access connections and to distribute 231 SHS kits, providing 2,475 people with enhanced energy access. On an annual basis, 137 tCO2e will be reduced and 2,785 MWh of clean electricity will be generated. In addition, Zonke Energy plans to create 37 temporary jobs and 1 permanent job, with 25% of leadership positions filled by women. Savings on energy-related expenditure is estimated to be EUR 17K.