Zimbabwe - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Our project aims to revolutionize the energy sector by sourcing and selling affordable green hydrogen for cooking and lighting. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, we focus on providing a cleaner and more efficient alternative

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Our project aims to revolutionize the energy sector by sourcing and selling affordable green hydrogen for cooking and lighting. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, we focus on providing a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Green hydrogen, produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources, offers a zero-emission energy solution. By harnessing this technology, we intend to mitigate the environmental impact associated with conventional energy sources, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Our business model is centered around making this innovative energy accessible and affordable for everyday consumers. We plan to establish a robust supply chain that ensures a steady, cost-effective production of green hydrogen. By partnering with renewable energy producers, we can secure a reliable and sustainable source of hydrogen.

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

The main problem we are addressing is the reliance on traditional fossil fuels for cooking and lighting, which leads to environmental degradation and health issues. Fossil fuels release significant amounts of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change, and indoor air pollution from burning these fuels poses serious health risks. Additionally, many communities, especially in remote or underserved areas, face high energy costs and unreliable energy access. Our project aims to solve these issues by providing affordable green hydrogen, a clean and sustainable energy source. By producing hydrogen through electrolysis powered by renewable energy, we offer a zero-emission alternative that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality. Furthermore, our focus on affordability and accessibility ensures that even the most vulnerable populations can benefit from clean energy, enhancing energy security and promoting a healthier living environment.

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

The major benefits of our green hydrogen gas are environmental, economic, and social. Environmentally, green hydrogen is produced using renewable energy, emitting zero carbon and significantly reducing greenhouse gases and air pollution. Economically, it offers a cost-effective alternative to fossil fuels, leading to savings for households and businesses. Socially, it improves health by eliminating harmful indoor air pollutants from traditional fuels, enhancing respiratory health. Additionally, green hydrogen ensures energy security and reliability, particularly in remote or underserved areas, by providing a stable energy source. It also stimulates job creation and economic growth in the renewable energy sector, fostering innovation and investment. Versatile and scalable, green hydrogen can meet diverse energy needs, making it a future-proof solution as demand for clean energy grows.

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

Our project is aimed at serving a diverse range of beneficiaries, focusing primarily on households and communities in both urban and rural areas. The primary targets are families in remote or underserved regions who lack reliable and affordable energy sources for cooking and lighting. Additionally, we aim to serve environmentally conscious consumers looking for sustainable energy alternatives. Small businesses and enterprises that rely on consistent energy for their operations are also key beneficiaries. Our green hydrogen solution will be particularly beneficial for regions suffering from high levels of indoor air pollution due to traditional cooking fuels. By providing an affordable, clean energy source, we aim to improve health outcomes, reduce energy costs, and enhance the quality of life. Furthermore, our project seeks to support local economies by creating jobs in the renewable energy sector, thereby contributing to community development.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2025-01-01

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

3

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

2

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

Shantel Kahari: She is a climate change activists , a holder of a BSc in Chemical Engineering, currently studying an MSc in Renewable Energy. Zvikomborero Mziti: He is a Quantity Surveyor by profession currently working at Nail It Construction Company as well as studying an MSc in Project Management. Cecilia Naule: She is a CEO of a renewable energy company that makes solar energy cooking and lighting equipment and the name of the company is Rural Power Solutions Namibia. She is in her final year studying an MSc in Renewable Energy at the University of Namibia.

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

https://linkedin.com/in/elton-mziti-a98ba020a

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

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Our project aims to sell green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, directly contributing to SDG 1: No Poverty. By providing an affordable and sustainable energy source, we help reduce energy poverty, a key factor in economic inequality. Green hydrogen can lower household energy costs, enabling families to allocate more resources to essentials like education, healthcare, and nutrition. Additionally, our project generates local employment opportunities, from production to distribution, thereby boosting local economies and providing stable incomes. By focusing on green hydrogen, we also support environmental sustainability, mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on impoverished communities. Thus, our initiative not only addresses immediate energy needs but also fosters long-term economic resilience and sustainability, helping lift communities out of poverty

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Our project focuses on selling green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, contributing significantly to SDG 2: Zero Hunger. By providing a clean and efficient energy source, we help reduce the reliance on traditional biomass fuels, which often require significant time and labor to gather, detracting from agricultural productivity. With green hydrogen, families can spend more time on farming activities, enhancing food production. Additionally, green hydrogen can power cold storage facilities, reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring that more food reaches markets and consumers. The affordability and sustainability of green hydrogen also enable households to save on energy costs, allowing more financial resources to be spent on nutritious food. By promoting environmental sustainability, our project helps maintain fertile lands and healthy ecosystems essential for food production. Thus, our initiative not only meets immediate energy needs but also supports food security and agriculture

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

how to answer the interview question to which extend does your project contribute to SDG "quality education" for someone who wants to start selling green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking example answer in 1000 characters only.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Our project aims to sell green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, indirectly contributing to SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. By providing a reliable and clean energy source, we enable the operation of water purification systems and sanitation facilities, especially in off-grid and rural areas. Green hydrogen can power pumps and treatment plants, ensuring a steady supply of clean water. Additionally, using green hydrogen reduces deforestation for fuelwood, protecting watersheds and maintaining water quality. The health benefits from clean cooking also reduce waterborne diseases, as improved indoor air quality correlates with better overall hygiene and health practices. Our project supports the infrastructure necessary for clean water access and effective sanitation, contributing to healthier communities and more sustainable water resource management.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Our project aims to sell green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, directly contributing to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. Green hydrogen is a clean, renewable energy source that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. By producing and distributing green hydrogen, we provide an affordable energy solution that can reach underserved communities, reducing energy poverty. Our project also promotes energy security and resilience by diversifying energy sources and reducing dependence on imported fuels. Additionally, the use of green hydrogen for cooking and lighting reduces indoor air pollution, improving public health. Through innovation and scalable technology, our project ensures that clean energy is accessible and affordable, fostering sustainable development and mitigating climate change impacts.

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

Our project aims to sell green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, significantly contributing to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By developing a green hydrogen industry, we create numerous job opportunities across the supply chain, from production and distribution to sales and maintenance. These jobs provide fair wages and safe working conditions, fostering economic stability in local communities. Additionally, by promoting a sustainable energy source, we attract investment and stimulate innovation in clean technology, further driving economic growth. Our project also supports small businesses and entrepreneurs by providing them with affordable and reliable energy, enhancing productivity and economic resilience. By reducing energy costs and environmental impacts, our initiative helps build a sustainable economy that benefits everyone.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Our project aims to sell green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, significantly contributing to SDG 10: Reduced Inequality. By providing an affordable and sustainable energy source, we help bridge the energy access gap in underserved and remote communities, ensuring that low-income households have access to reliable energy for basic needs. This reduces disparities in living conditions and opportunities for economic participation. Additionally, our project promotes inclusive economic growth by creating jobs and fostering local entrepreneurship across diverse communities, including marginalized groups. By supporting clean energy adoption, we also mitigate the environmental impacts that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Overall, our initiative promotes social equity, economic inclusion, and environmental justice, helping to create a more equitable and inclusive society.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Our project focuses on selling green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, directly contributing to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By providing a clean and renewable energy alternative, we reduce urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to improved air quality and public health in urban areas. The adoption of green hydrogen also supports the transition towards sustainable urban infrastructure by promoting decentralized energy systems that enhance energy efficiency and resilience against climate impacts. Moreover, by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, our project enhances local energy security and economic stability. Additionally, the use of green hydrogen for cooking and lighting in urban households reduces fire hazards associated with traditional fuels, improving overall safety. Ultimately, our initiative aims to foster sustainable urban development, ensuring cities are more inclusive, resilient, and environmentally sustainable.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Responsible Consumption. Green hydrogen represents a shift towards sustainable energy consumption by offering a clean and efficient alternative to traditional fossil fuels. By promoting the adoption of green hydrogen, we aim to reduce the carbon footprint associated with energy consumption in households and businesses. This supports responsible consumption patterns by encouraging efficient use of resources and reducing environmental impact. Additionally, green hydrogen production often utilizes renewable energy sources, further minimizing environmental degradation compared to fossil fuel extraction and combustion. Our project also advocates for sustainable practices across the energy supply chain, from production to distribution, promoting transparency and accountability in resource management. Ultimately, by offering a sustainable energy solution, we contribute to responsible consumption practices that prioritize environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Our project focuses on selling green hydrogen gas for lighting and cooking, directly contributing to SDG 13: Climate Action. Green hydrogen is produced using renewable energy sources like wind and solar power, emitting no greenhouse gases during combustion. By replacing traditional fossil fuels in households and industries, our project significantly reduces carbon emissions and air pollution, mitigating climate change impacts. Additionally, green hydrogen supports the integration of renewable energy into the energy mix, enhancing energy security and resilience against climate-related disruptions. Our initiative also fosters innovation in clean technology and sustainable practices, promoting a low-carbon economy and accelerating the global transition to clean energy. Ultimately, by advancing green hydrogen adoption, we contribute to global efforts to combat climate change, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Life Below Water. By promoting the use of clean and renewable energy sources like green hydrogen, we help mitigate climate change effects such as ocean acidification and sea level rise, which threaten marine biodiversity. Reduced carbon emissions from fossil fuel alternatives support healthier oceans by minimizing the impact of greenhouse gases on marine ecosystems. Additionally, green hydrogen production often utilizes sustainable practices that reduce water pollution and marine debris compared to traditional fuel extraction methods. By advocating for renewable energy adoption, our project supports sustainable fisheries, coral reef conservation, and marine biodiversity preservation. Ultimately, our initiative contributes to safeguarding life below water by promoting environmentally friendly energy solutions that reduce our ecological footprint and support marine ecosystem resilience.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Life on Land. By promoting the adoption of clean and renewable energy sources like green hydrogen, we reduce the demand for unsustainable land use practices such as deforestation for wood fuel. This helps preserve terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity by mitigating habitat loss and fragmentation. Additionally, green hydrogen production emits no greenhouse gases or air pollutants, improving air quality and ecosystem health. By reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, our project contributes to combating climate change, which poses significant threats to terrestrial biodiversity and ecosystem services. Furthermore, by supporting sustainable energy solutions, we advocate for responsible land management practices that prioritize conservation and restoration efforts. Ultimately, our initiative aims to protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems, ensuring the well-being of life on land for current and future generations.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. By promoting sustainable energy solutions, we foster economic development and stability in communities, reducing energy poverty and enhancing livelihoods. Access to clean and affordable energy supports strong institutions by improving public health, education, and overall quality of life, which are foundational to societal peace and well-being. Additionally, green hydrogen reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, enhancing energy security and reducing geopolitical tensions related to energy resources. Our initiative advocates for transparent and inclusive governance in the energy sector, promoting fair resource allocation and community engagement. By supporting sustainable development practices, we contribute to building resilient institutions that uphold justice and promote equitable access to resources, essential for peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Partnership for the Goals. We believe in fostering partnerships across sectors—government, private sector, academia, and communities—to promote sustainable energy solutions. By collaborating with stakeholders, we leverage expertise, resources, and knowledge to accelerate the adoption of green hydrogen. Partnerships enable us to innovate and develop scalable solutions that address energy access challenges while promoting environmental sustainability. Moreover, we engage in partnerships to enhance technical capacity, regulatory frameworks, and investment climates necessary for the widespread adoption of clean energy technologies. By advocating for inclusive partnerships, we ensure that diverse voices are heard and that solutions are equitable and sustainable. Ultimately, our project demonstrates the power of collaboration in achieving the SDGs, driving collective action towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

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

5

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

5

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

2

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.

5

05.08 Justification

Our project stands out due to its innovative approach to leveraging green hydrogen for cooking and lighting. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, green hydrogen offers a clean and sustainable energy alternative with zero greenhouse gas emissions during use. This not only addresses environmental concerns but also promotes healthier indoor air quality and reduces reliance on finite fossil fuel resources. Our initiative integrates cutting-edge technologies in hydrogen production, storage, and distribution, ensuring efficiency and reliability. Moreover, by focusing on both household cooking and lighting needs, we provide a comprehensive energy solution that enhances daily living while contributing to global efforts in combating climate change. This unique combination of environmental sustainability, technological innovation, and practical application positions our project at the forefront of advancing clean energy solutions.

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

In the emerging market of green hydrogen gas for cooking, our main potential competitors include established energy companies and emerging startups. What sets us apart is our commitment to affordability, accessibility, and sustainability. Unlike some competitors focused solely on high-end markets, we aim to democratize access to clean energy by offering competitive pricing and scalable solutions suitable for diverse households. Additionally, our emphasis on community engagement and transparent practices builds trust and loyalty. We differentiate ourselves through a robust network of partnerships with renewable energy providers and a focus on technological innovation to enhance efficiency and reliability. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and environmental impact, we aim to lead in delivering a sustainable and accessible green hydrogen solution for cooking.

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

Yes Our initiative actively promotes the role of female entrepreneurs within our community through targeted actions and support programs. We believe in fostering inclusivity and diversity in entrepreneurship. We collaborate with local organizations to provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources specifically tailored to women interested in the green energy sector. Additionally, we prioritize gender-balanced recruitment and leadership roles within our team, setting a precedent for equitable representation. By empowering female entrepreneurs, we aim to contribute to economic growth, innovation, and sustainability in our community, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in shaping our green hydrogen initiative.