Benin energy spirit rises

Benin is one country whose people are presently getting a much-needed new lease of life.

Next-generation energy company, Fenix International (https://www.FenixIntl.com/), a subsidiary of ENGIE, is responsible for uplifting their spirits as it’s helping them have access to essential energy and has already connected 40,000 households, representing 200,000 people, to solar power within just a year of operation.

Only 34% of Beninois have access to electricity, with rural residents still further behind at a 16% electrification rate. Fenix’s high-quality solar home systems and strong distribution network allow distributed rural households to access warrantied products and accompanying after-sales service. Customers pay for the 10 to 50 watts solar home systems over time with small mobile money payments. Paying for the kits via installments makes them affordable even for low-income families and opens a path to financial inclusion via a Fenix credit score and upgrades to larger systems and additional services.

Brian Warshawsky, CEO, Fenix International, said, “In 2019, it’s unconscionable that 600 million people across Africa still lack access to electricity. I’m thrilled that we’re making a difference in the lives of 40,000 Beninois households and 200,000 people, providing access not only to clean solar power, but also to financial empowerment. It’s a testament to the strength of our team in Benin that we were able to grow so rapidly, and I look forward to seeing their accomplishments going forward.”

Yoven Mooroven, CEO of ENGIE Africa, said, “It’s exciting to see energy access expanding in Africa, and I’m proud of the contributions our various teams are making to the effort. With ENGIE Power Corner providing mini-grids in Tanzania, Zambia and starting development in Western Africa, newly-acquired Mobisol selling larger solar home systems in East Africa, and Fenix focusing on ultra-affordable PAYGO systems in six markets, ENGIE Africa is working at all levels to implement our Access to Energy strategy across Africa.”

Philippe Robert, Managing Director, Fenix Benin, concluded that “reaching 40,000 households in just a year is a huge milestone for our team to accomplish, but it is only the beginning for Fenix Benin. Our 140 employees are just getting started in our goal to bring clean light and power to all those without electricity across Benin. Providing much more than just solar lighting, our systems allow customers to access an on-grid experience with TVs, radios, additional accessories and financial and product upgrades. We will continue to work tirelessly to illuminate the next 40,000 homes, then the next 100,000, until everyone across Benin has a clean, well-lit home free from the dangers of polluting fossil fuels.”