In 2024, the World Bank reported that only 55.1% of the population of sub-Saharan Africa had access to electricity (World Bank data, 2024). Where grid connections do exist, frequent outages can make it difficult to study, work, run a business, or provide essential services. This is a significant obstacle to almost every development endeavor, including education, healthcare, and economic independence. With it solved, we can connect even remote areas to the global digital economy. Solar is a promising solution in much of Africa, but it is often unaffordable for many households.
My solution is to rent out batteries. Users could rent small batteries for house lighting and phone charging, larger ones for remote work and laptop use, and extra large capacity batteries for running businesses or medical clinic equipment. This model is largely unavailable so far.
Why should you donate to this cause over the many others that vie for your funding? Trillions of dollars in foreign aid have been sent to Africa, yet we still see so much need (Dambisa Moyo, Dead Aid, 2009). I studied at MIT to learn how to solve extreme poverty in developing countries, and why so many well-meaning endeavors fail. This cause is different, because it will bridge the barrier keeping people from accessing solutions to their own problems. It’s also designed so the venture will eventually be self-sustaining and profitable, bringing economic viability and jobs with it.
We need the first $500 this week for a prototype, because of imminent grant deadlines. The prototype consists of a battery and a portable solar panel (such as those used for camping) which will be tested by a user in Nigeria for remote employment. After the prototype is funded, we can start applying for grant funding. Additional donations will help us scale the venture and provide more power in more places.
I envision this revolutionizing energy access and prosperity on the continent. With your help we can make it possible. Thank you for considering a donation.
