Cases from Access to Energy, Hystra

Solar Home Systems

A project approach initiated by many in the BOP segment is the Solar Home System - or SHS. The system often consists of a solar panel, a car-battery, wires, and some LED lights. Even smaller SHS are implemented, like lanterns with integrated solar panels, but also larger systems with additional power for radios or other appliances.

A successful example is the Solar Energy Foundation (SEF) initiative in Ethiopia. The initiative includes the sale of two different sized systems, 50 franchised solar centres providing technicians for installation and service, microfinance services, and collaboration with good local institutions and local communities. The target group includes schools, water pumping utilities, and households.

Restructuring grid payment systems and additional microcredit

A successful project that targets another segment of the BOP is the Codensa Slum Electricity grid connection project. The project made available microcredits for electrical appliances and insurances for the connected customers in slum areas. The microcredits were offered to poor customers to buy electrical appliances.

Another successful project is the CONLOG pre-pay metering project in Sudan. The project encompassed the installation of over one million prepayment meters in Khartoum to existing customers as well as to new customers. It benefitted both the electrical consumers who now have regular, safe, and reliable electrical service, and the utility company eliminated its debt of USD 70 million from unpaid bills.