EEP Africa Knowledge Week is a series of online events that examines evolving themes and innovative projects in the clean energy sector in Africa. The event this year includes sessions on cold storage technologies and business models, the upcoming EEP Africa Call for Proposals and unlocking carbon finance.
We are pleased to have an exciting group of speakers drawn from the sector. We also look forward to announcing EEP Africa 2023 Projects of the Year and our 2023 Rising Energy Leader during the week.
In addition, EEP Africa is launching its alumni network, drawing on nearly 260 projects which have benefited from EEP Africa financing over the past 12 years. The network will create visibility, networking, and knowledge-sharing opportunities for EEP Africa alumni.
6 February at 14:00 – 15:30 (GMT+2)
Cooling Solutions: Interplay Between Business Models and Technology in SSA
In emerging markets, access to cold storage is critical for both health and nutrition, and can reduce food waste, provide economic opportunities for farmers and businesses, and reduce the burden on vulnerable populations. New technologies and business models for off-grid cooling solutions are on the rise, using innovative and digital solutions which also allow decentralised monitoring and decision making. However, there are pressing concerns revolving around ensuring both productivity and accessibility, especially for the economically marginalized at the bottom of the pyramid. Long-term viability also remains a hurdle for many cold storage companies which play a crucial role in preventing post-harvest loss.
This session will dissect the critical interplay between cold storage technological innovation and sustainable business models, exploring how such frameworks can be harnessed to not only drive economic development but also empower underserved communities.
Speakers:
Chiedza Mazaiwana, EEP Africa Portfolio Manager (moderator); Chris Beland, Technical Programme Manager, Energy Saving Trust, Denis Karema, Founder and CEO, SokoFresh; Chianda Njogu, Manager for Demand, Jobs & Livelihoods, GEAPP, Christopher Emmott, Associate Director investing in Energy Access, Acumen; Tracy Kimathi, CEO, Baridi.
7 February at 14:00 – 15:30 (GMT+2)
EEP Africa Call for Proposals: Grant Financing for Innovative Clean Energy Solutions & Alumni Network Launch
Are you a clean energy company doing business in Southern or Eastern Africa? Are you interested in grant financing for innovative clean energy solutions?
Join EEP Africa Knowledge Week to learn about the upcoming Call for Proposals, followed by a chance to ask questions about the process and get tips on how to make a good application.
We will also announce the awards for Project of the Year and Rising Energy Leader during this session.
In addition, EEP Africa is launching its alumni network, drawing on nearly 260 projects which have benefited from EEP Africa financing over the past 12 years. The network will create visibility, networking, and knowledge-sharing opportunities for EEP Africa alumni.
Speakers:
Jussi Viding, Manager of EEP Africa ; Susanne Hounsell, Head of Portfolio, EEP Africa.
8 February at 14:00 – 15:30 (GMT+2)
Unlocking Carbon Finance for Smaller Businesses
The voluntary carbon market presents an opportunity for renewable energy companies to access additional revenue streams and expand their reach. Despite the opportunity, the African carbon credits market has significant scope for growth, having attained only 2% of its full potential to date. The development of the carbon credits market in Africa is primarily hindered by market-related challenges. Small businesses especially face disadvantages that restrict their direct access to the carbon credit market. These include high associated costs, required scale, and a lengthy and cumbersome accreditation process. However, innovative approaches are emerging which address these barriers.
Join to hear about several cost-effective and innovative solutions emerging within the carbon credits market, catering to the needs of smaller businesses.
Speakers:
Karlijn Groen, EEP Africa Portfolio Manager (moderator); Ryan Ombara, Project Leader, Open Capital Advisors; Nikki Carenza, Manager Digital Finance, 4R Digital; Dennis Onono, Associate Director, South Pole; Madrin Maina, Director, Sistema.bio; Nicole Kugelmass, Director Strategic Initiatives & Investments, Mirova SunFunder.