Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Cleanergy is a sustainable energy idea that tackles energy poverty in Nigeria by providing clean and affordable energy via cluster-based microgrids and pay-as-you-go solar kits. We aim to drive renewable energy adoption through reduced ownership costs.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Cleanergy combines solar-powered microgrids and pay-as-you-go solar kit services into a single package, resulting in a comprehensive energy solution that eliminates the high cost of solar equipment ownership by providing off-grid renewable energy to a group of users, individuals, and businesses in both rural and urban areas and charging a small monthly subscription payment in the form of an electricity bill or a monthly installment payment for full ownership. We innovate by accepting non-cash commodities such as crops, recyclables, and locally produced goods as payment, resulting in flexible and inclusive payment choices that go beyond standard cash transactions. Furthermore, our AI-powered mobile app allows customers to optimize their energy usage, receive maintenance alerts, make payments, and earn energy credits by participating in referral programs or surveys.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

More than 98 million Nigerians lack electricity, predominantly in rural communities. Without reliable power, rural dwellers face significant obstacles in education, farming, healthcare, and overall quality of life. Urban areas also struggle with recent hikes in electricity tariffs, frequent national grid collapses, and erratic power supply. Cleanergy's microgrids and pay-as-you-go services offer an affordable and renewable power supply option with a flexible payment plan that aims to eliminate high ownership costs, enabling businesses and homes to thrive, students to study at night, farmers to improve irrigation and storage, and health centers to refrigerate vaccines, perform medical procedures reliably, and provide emergency lighting. We are passionate about bridging the energy access gap, eliminating energy poverty, and driving sustainable energy practices that will reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate deforestation and climate change in the long run.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Our solution offers: Cost Savings: Reduces reliance on expensive generators and mitigates the impact of electricity tariff hikes. Productivity: Provides reliable power for businesses and homes, boosting economic growth. Financial Inclusion: Makes energy accessible to low-income households, integrating them into the financial system. Employment: creates jobs in the installation and operation of microgrids. Cuts Carbon Emissions: Cuts greenhouse gas emissions and pollution associated with fossil fuels. Sustainable energy: promotes environmental conservation and climate change mitigation. Quality of Life: Enhances living conditions and community growth in rural areas. Education: Aids students to study at night, improving educational outcomes. Healthcare: Powers rural health centers and ensures safe vaccine storage. Scalability: It can be easily scaled to meet the energy needs of various communities. Rapid Deployment: Enables faster installation compared to extending the national grid.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Cleanergy's solution targets two sets of customers: 1. Urban homes and businesses that are connected to the national grid but are frustrated with the poor power supply from the grid, high cost of using backup generators, high electricity tariff, and customers who are passionate about contributing to climate change mitigation through renewable energy adoption. They could be estates or small communities that are provided microgrids on a subscription basis or individual homes and businesses that are offered solar kits on a pay-as-you-go model. 2. Rural dwellers that not supplied by the national grid. These classes of customers need electricity for processing and storing farm produce, to pump clean water for usage, for lighting, and to improve their standard of living. Their needs are slightly different from those of urban dwellers and are usually at the bottom of the pyramid with respect to development and financial inclusion.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-11-08

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

My other partner is my girlfriend, a science teacher at a remote secondary school in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. She has B.Edu. degree in chemistry education from the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. Born and raised in a riverine community in Rivers State that lacked access to electricity, and having been plying her teaching profession in a rural community for over a year now, she understands the needs of rural dwellers in Nigeria, especially in terms of energy access, having experienced it as a child. She has developed good communication skills and trust among the rural communities, making her a valuable asset in onboarding and convincing them about the benefits of our solution. Furthermore, utilizing her knowledge of chemistry alongside my extensive experience in electrical engineering, she has contributed immensely to our proposed scaling plan to develop an eco-friendly energy storage system.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Cleanergy's Solar-Microgrid-as-a-Service and Pay-As-You-Go Solar Kits contribute to SDG 1 on No Poverty by delivering inexpensive, dependable electricity, lowering expenses for individuals and businesses, and creating local jobs. The pay-as-you-go concept provides financial inclusion for low-income households, while constant energy supply increases productivity in small businesses and agriculture, resulting in higher earnings. Furthermore, better access to education and healthcare services via stable power promotes human capital development, all of which help to alleviate poverty.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Nigeria's rural society is predominantly agrarian, relying primarily on the revenue provided by agricultural activities to survive. With Cleanergy's solution, these rural inhabitants will have access to clean and affordable power, which will benefit agriculture by pumping water for irrigation, storing food, and adding value to agricultural products through food processing activities such as drying, cold storage, and grinding. Our idea aims to increase food security and make nutritious food available to both urban and rural residents, thereby contributing to efforts to eradicate hunger.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Cleanergy's solution will make energy available for pumping clean underground water, removing the need to collect drinking water from severely filthy surface water systems, which have been linked to cholera, typhoid, and an array of other hygiene-related ailments. Our products will provide energy to hospitals and health care facilities, allowing for vaccine refrigeration and storage. Furthermore, lowered energy costs will allow health facilities to perform treatments more efficiently, lowering the cost of access to health care and encouraging excellent health and well-being within communities.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

The role of technology in promoting quality education is immense. However, the lack of electricity has slowed the spread of technology in our rural communities. As a result, with access to energy, schools can afford to operate technological tools such as computers, tablets, and mobile phones, all of which aid in modern teaching. At home, prolonged study hours made possible by dependable solar-powered illumination systems contribute to better educational outcomes, accelerating progress towards quality education for everyone.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Increased access to reliable energy reduces the time women and girls spend on household chores, allowing them to pursue education and economic opportunities, thereby promoting gender equality. Reliable electricity enables the use of modern appliances, saving time and facilitating small businesses like tailoring, baking, and crafts. Women can also start new ventures requiring consistent power, boosting their income and economic independence. Additionally, well-lit homes and streets enhance safety, reducing the risk of gender-based violence and enabling women to participate in evening activities. Overall, clean and reliable electricity empowers women, fostering gender equality and economic growth.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Cleanergy's sustainable energy solutions indirectly support access to clean water and sanitation by powering water pumps, filtration systems, and sanitation facilities in remote areas. With reliable electricity, water pumps can efficiently extract and distribute clean water, ensuring consistent access to safe drinking water. Filtration systems powered by renewable energy can effectively remove contaminants, providing healthier water for communities. Additionally, a stable energy supply enables the operation of modern sanitation facilities, including sewage treatment plants and waste management systems, significantly improving hygiene and reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. This holistic approach not only enhances public health but also fosters sustainable development by ensuring essential services are reliably available in underserved regions.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Cleanergy directly contributes to SDG 7 by providing affordable, renewable energy solutions to communities, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and mitigating climate change. For rural dwellers, Cleanergy's solar microgrids and pay-as-you-go solar kits offer consistent power for homes, schools, and health centers, dramatically improving quality of life, economic opportunities, and access to essential services. In urban areas, where frequent power outages and high electricity tariffs are common, Cleanergy's solutions provide a reliable and cost-effective alternative, enabling businesses to operate smoothly and households to reduce energy costs. By ensuring stable and clean energy access for both rural and urban populations, Cleanergy fosters sustainable development and helps combat climate change.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

The creation of local jobs in the installation, maintenance, and operation of solar microgrids promotes economic growth and decent employment possibilities in communities. Locals will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to earn a living as a result of our initiative, which will include training and development. Furthermore, Cleanergy's initiatives indirectly contribute to economic prosperity, particularly for those who work in commercial activities that rely substantially on electricity, such as welding and metal fabrication, sewing businesses, ice block and cold storage ventures, food vendors, and so on.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Cleanergy's innovative energy solutions contribute to the development of sustainable infrastructure and promote technological innovation within the energy sector. Our innovative approach of combining solar powered microgrid as a service and pay-as-you-go solar kits to bridge the energy access gap will directly result in infrastructural development in both the energy industry and in all industries utilizing electric energy. Our solution is scalable, low-cost, and can be rapidly deployed, reducing implementation time and encouraging increased investment.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

By making renewable energy accessible to low-income households, Cleanergy helps reduce inequalities and fosters inclusive economic growth within communities. Access to cheap and clean energy avails the underserved members of society of the opportunity to favourably compete for resources and opportunities, bridging the inequality gap in the long run.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Cleanergy's idea contributes to sustainable cities and communities by providing reliable and clean energy that reduces dependence on fossil fuels and mitigates climate change. Cleanergy’s solar power systems cut greenhouse gas emissions and decrease air pollution, fostering a healthier and more sustainable ecosystem. Also, a consistent and affordable power supply lowers electricity costs and supports uninterrupted business operations in urban areas, while enabling new economic activities and improving productivity in rural regions. This boosts local economies and creates jobs in the long run. Access to clean energy enhances quality of life by powering essential services like healthcare and education, ensuring that communities have the necessary resources for development and resilience. Overall, Cleanergy’s solutions drive environmental sustainability, economic growth, and improved living standards, fostering truly sustainable cities and communities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Encouraging the transition to renewable energy sources and the reduction in fossil fuel usage are consistent with the goals of responsible consumption and production, which contribute to environmental sustainability. Cleanergy's solutions promote sustainable energy by reducing waste and pollution, lowering the carbon footprint, and conserving natural resources. Our idea promotes sustainable production patterns, ensuring that energy use does not deplete ecosystems or damage biodiversity. Furthermore, it promotes the development and implementation of environmentally friendly technology and sustainable practices, supporting a circular economy in which resources are reused and recycled. Overall, using renewable energy is critical for responsible consumption and production, resulting in a healthier planet and sustainable development.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Cleanergy's startup concept aligns with SDG 13 on Climate Action by driving the adoption of renewable energy through the elimination of the high cost associated with the outright ownership of solar energy equipment. This significantly lowers reliance on fossil fuels and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. In third-world nations like Nigeria, where energy infrastructure is often inadequate and largely reliant on polluting generating sets, Cleanergy's renewable solutions provide a sustainable alternative that helps combat climate change. Cleanergy promotes clean energy adoption, which not only reduces air pollution and environmental degradation but also increases energy resilience and sustainability in communities vulnerable to climate change. This shift to renewable energy is critical for mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable development in Nigeria and other places.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Cleanergy's business idea contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 15, Life on Land, by offering affordable and clean energy alternatives to people in rural areas who typically depend on wood and charcoal. By shifting to solar-powered solutions, we help preserve forests, protect biodiversity, and maintain healthy ecosystems. Our approach not only reduces deforestation and wood logging activities but also promotes sustainable land use, safeguards natural habitats, and enhances the resilience of both flora and fauna. Additionally, by lowering carbon emissions and minimizing environmental degradation, Cleanergy supports a healthier planet for future generations.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

At Cleanergy, we are committed to working with stakeholders in the energy industry, local communities, governments, and NGOs to promote the adoption of renewable and sustainable energy in Nigeria. This commitment is demonstrated by our desire to partner with these stakeholders to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and foster collective action towards common objectives.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

4

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

2

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

The combination of solar-powered microgrid-as-a-service and pay-as-you-go solar kits in one business model is intended to offer customers more options for adopting clean energy sources. In the traditional solar market, customers must purchase solar kits outright, which can be a financial burden for low-income earners. Our innovative approach addresses this issue by offering a subscription-based service that removes ownership liability from users and provides a flexible payment plan for installing solar kits. Also, we offer a wide range of payment option for low income earners like farmers in rural areas and artisans to pay energy fees with farm produce, recyclables, and hand crafted items of value, which will then be resold to other business at a higher profit. This business model makes solar energy more accessible to low-income communities, which is a key factor in achieving widespread adoption of clean energy.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Our main competitors are Dayster Power, M-kopa Solar, Lumos Global, Azuri Technologies, Greenlight Planet, Fenix International, Renewvia Energy, and Solar Sisters. These competitors offer flexible payment plans for their products, but these plans lack coverage and do not focus on low-income earners in hard-to-reach areas. Also, our competitors do not offer minigrid services but only focus on the sale of their products. We aim to target those customers in rural areas that have been neglected by our competitors. We plan to offer minigrids as a service to allow users greater flexibility in adopting solar energy. We will leverage AI in smart metering and mobile money payments to ease subscription hurdles. We will also partner with existing solar product developers to provide our services, rather than directly competing with them. Our unique value proposition lies in the combination of microgrid services and pay-as-you go solar kit offerings, as well as the acceptance of non-cash payments.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

I currently serve as a volunteer consultant for an all-female cooperative society in the agricultural sector, aimed at promoting high-value agricultural practices within my community. Additionally, in my other businesses, I have allocated approximately fifty percent of my workforce to young girls and single mothers to foster entrepreneurial interest. I firmly believe that financially independent women are crucial contributors to family success, a belief shaped by observing the significant impact of my mother and sister's financial acumen on our family's prosperity.