In a semiarid region with limited access to water and heavy reliance on firewood and charcoal for energy, communities had very little access to electricity. Renewable energy has lit up the community.
Initially, only 24% of the community had access to clean water, and a mere 0.7% had electricity. The project sought to improve access to renewable energy that is both socially and environmentally suitable, providing communities with electricity for lighting, water, and other essential household and livelihood needs.
You can learn more about the project and hear from the community members the impact it has had on their lives here.
The solar mini-grid now provides electricity to approximately 275 homes, businesses, and public services. Additionally, a solar-powered borehole supplies clean drinking water for the community, livestock, and wildlife – replacing the previous fossil-fuel-dependent borehole with a clean energy alternative.
The success of the project depended on the continuous community engagement throughout, alongside County and other leaders who were involved in the engagement and decision making.
The maintenance and repairs to the infrastructure is overseen by a committee comprised of 10 community members, consisting of equal representation of men and women, and are responsible for overseeing the maintenance and repairs of the infrastructure.