Author: Godfrey

I am a renewable energy expert and consultant working to support development of solutions to improve access to better energy services.

2017 SAG-SEED Awards: Call for Applications NOW OPEN

SEED has launched the 2017 SWITCH Africa Green (SAG)-SEED Awards for innovative eco-inclusive start-up enterprises that aim to generate environmental, social and economic benefits at the local level.

This year, SEED is looking for applications for 15 SAG – SEED Awards for enterprises in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa and Uganda.

Candidates can apply from 10 January 2017 until 08 March 2017, 23:59 Central African Time (CAT).

For detailed information please refer to the attached call for applications (English) or to the SEED homepage. Pour plus de information en français, visitezwww.seed.uno.

call_for_applications_sag_seed_2017_en.pdf

Sun-Connect | African News of the week | 01 / 2017

The electrification of Africa through renewable energy sources: bridging the gap
The key to unlocking Africa’s potential lies in identifying opportunities that can utilise national and regional energy resources in a way that is beneficial to the continent. With the abundance of solar and wind resources, Africa could become a trailblazer for renewable energy.

Solar powered pond pump to enhance fish farming in Kenya

Fisheries sector in Kenya is attracting more accommodating innovations as the government seeks to tackle over-dependence on lakes and ocean waters. One of them is the solar powered pond pump.

Country News

  • AfDB support for Tanzania’s off-grid energy plans
  • Nigeria: Agency advocates more collaboration on renewable off-grid electricity
  • Malawi installing affordable solar-powered lights at schools
More information at Sun-Connect News

Women solar entrepreneurs drive East African business surge

BUNAMBIYU, Tanzania, Dec 6 (Thomson Reuters Foundation)

As the darkness falls on the plains around Bunambiyu, a remote village in Tanzania’s northern Shinyanga region, Elizabeth Julius switches on her solar lantern to finish sewing clothes for her customers. Not long ago, nightfall would have forced her to close her tailoring shop, or use a smoky kerosene lamp. But with the solar-powered lamp, Julius can now sew for as long as she wants.

"Solar energy has entirely changed my life. I use it at work and at home, yet it doesn’t cost me anything," said the 29-year-old entrepreneur and mother of two.

"I often wake up at night to work because I need the money to support my family," she said…….

Read more about this story here