Partnering for Impact in Kenya: Financing Solutions and Technology Demos in Action
Despite growing awareness of the benefits of clean energy, the adoption of solar-powered productive use equipment and electric cooking (eCooking) technologies remains relatively low in Kenya—especially among rural communities and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Two key barriers are limited awareness of these technologies and the affordability challenge posed by low-income levels among target users. To address these challenges, EnDev has been actively forging partnerships with financial institutions to enable access to tailored financing for clean energy technologies. This work builds on EnDev’s global commitment to accelerating access to clean energy through local partnerships and innovative financing models.
In May 2025, EnDev Kenya marked a major milestone by joining forces with Apstar DT SACCO, a financial cooperative that accepts deposits and provides savings and credit services. During a sensitization and capacity building workshop held in Nairobi, Valerie Ostheimer, Team Leader at EnDev Kenya, and Dr. Philip Cherono, National Board Chairman of Apstar DT SACCO, agreed on a joint framework that will pave the way for a series of interventions aimed at boosting the uptake of eCooking and solar technologies.
Key Focus Areas of the Partnership
The agreement highlights key areas where the two partners will work together:
- Sensitization and training of SACCO management and staff
- Business-to-business (B2B) linkages with technology distributors
- Awareness creation among SACCO members
- Digitalization of financing processes
- Consumer financing solutions tailored to the needs of households and MSMEs
- Impact:Over 5,000 individuals are expected to gain access to clean cooking solutions, reducing exposure to hazardous smoke and cutting down on time and costs associated with traditional fuels.
- More than 120 MSMEs will benefit from solar technology financing, enabling increased productivity, income generation, and job creation.
Technology Demonstration and Stakeholder Engagement
To deepen understanding and build confidence in clean energy solutions, theworkshop featured live technology demonstrations by leading clean energy providers, giving SACCO staff and stakeholders a firsthand look at innovative products. Participating organizations included KPLC’s Pika na Power, Omnivoltaic, Sunculture, Solargen Technologies, Davis & Shirtliff, Nyalore Impact, Mwangaza Light, and Nagoya (Sayona) Holdings
These interactive sessions not only showcased the products but also opened direct channels for dialogue between suppliers and financial institutions, paving the way for tailored financing solutions and stronger market linkages.
Through this strategic partnership, EnDev Kenya contributes to the wider EnDev network’s goal of expanding clean energy access across multiple countries. By fostering inclusive financing solutions and strengthening local capacities, EnDev supports sustainable development and improved livelihoods for communities worldwide.
