In East Africa, SkyPower, a global developer of utility-scale solar energy projects, stated that it will be partnering with Plan International for the distribution of two million SkyPower Home solar systems to provide energy to poor households, schools and health clinics in Kenya.
In a statement released last week by SkyPower, the company said that this initiative is in accordance with the Kenyan government which was first announced in July this year during the 6th annual Global Entrepreneurship Summit held in Nairobi.
“This initiative forms part of the landmark agreement between the Kenyan Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and SkyPower to develop, build, own and operate 2GW of world class, utility-scale solar projects across Kenya, which will be built over the next five years,” the release said.
Plan International's capabilities
According to SkyPower, after careful considerations working closely with the Kenyan government, they agreed to select Plan International to help execute their vision.
SkyPower expressed confidence in the organisation as it has a global footprint and has previously worked in Kenya on other projects.
“The global organisation works in partnership with 51 countries and 21 donor countries to design a rigid, comprehensive, targeted logistics, distribution, management, product support and swap-out programme with the strictest of controls and accountability to ensure these solar power systems reach the families and healthcare providers, which are the intended recipients,” the release said.
CEO and President of SkyPower Kerry Adler commented: “SkyPower is proud to be setting the example that will support President Kenyatta’s vision for a growing, sustainable and prosperous Kenya based on the cleanest and most reliable form of renewable energy.”
Commenting on the initiative the Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta said “It is a comprehensive plan that is reflective of the commitment of our government to address energy deficiency and climate change, in our unwavering efforts to ensure the brightest and most prosperous future for all Kenyans.”
Distribution of the solar systems
For households and schools, the SkyPower Home solar systems will be distributed through selected primary schools and will each have a solar panel, LED bulbs, USB charging capabilities for charging cell phones and other handheld electronic devices as well as a solar-powered radio.
Meanwhile, a percentage of the solar systems are also going be provided to local primary health care centres.
“Plan has worked in Kenya for over 33 years, and project will offer a truly transformative contribution towards ensuring the safe delivery of infants, that boys and girls succeed in school…climate change is addressed, said Marie Staunton, Plan International Canada’s interim President and CEO.