Four Nigerian organisations were on Thursday, November 28, 2024, announced by the African Solar Industry Association (AFSIA) as part of the winners of the AFSIA Solar Awards 2024, which recognises the most outstanding achievements, projects, and individuals in the solar energy sector across Africa.
The awards ceremony, held on Wednesday, November 27, celebrated excellence in 14 key categories, highlighting the growing role of solar energy in driving Africa’s sustainable development.
The Nigerian winners include Engie Energy Access, So-Cool Energy, PowerNow and PAM-Ai.
Winner of the “Mini-Grid Project of the Year”, Engie Energy Access has commissioned 15 mini-grids in rural areas located in Kogi, Nasarawa, and Niger states in Nigeria, reportedly bringing reliable and affordable solar energy, transforming communities and boosting local economies.
Co-winner of the “Productive Use Application of the Year”, So-Cool Energy offers movable, solar-powered kiosks with refrigeration, designed for SMEs in remote areas. These sustainable kiosks enable businesses to store and sell perishable goods without relying on the grid, promoting efficiency and reducing costs.
Winner of the “Solar Entrepreneur / SME of the Year”, PowerNow is a digital platform that streamlines the process of accessing, installing, and supporting pre-financed commercial and industrial (C&I) solar systems. With a user-friendly interface, it simplifies everything from application submission to installation tracking and ongoing support, making it easier for businesses to adopt solar energy solutions with minimal hassle.
Winner of the “Solar Innovation of the Year”, PAM-Ai has developed an AI-driven platform that tackles inefficiencies in mini-grids by implementing dynamic tariffs. The platform adjusts energy prices in real-time based on demand and customer profiles, making electricity more affordable and accessible while optimising grid performance.
There were also winners from Norway, Ghana, USA, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Germany and Tanzania.
Miss Ismène Ahamide of Benin won the Lifetime Achievement Award. Miss Ismène Ahamide, founder and CEO of Ismast Energy, was recognised for her leadership and dedication to advancing solar technology and energy access in West Africa.
“We are incredibly proud of the winners and all those who have contributed to the solar energy revolution in Africa,” said John van Zuylen, AFSIA’s CEO. “The winners of the AFSIA Solar Awards 2024 embody the innovative spirit, dedication, and impact that are driving the renewable energy transformation across Africa.”
Josée Umugwaneza, Community Director, AFSIA, says: “AFSIA Solar Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the best and brightest in Africa’s solar industry. As the sector grows, the impact of these projects will be felt for generations, accelerating Africa’s transition to clean, affordable, and reliable energy.”
The AFSIA Solar Awards have been described as a cornerstone of the continent’s renewable energy industry, offering a platform to celebrate and showcase exceptional contributions to solar energy, from large-scale infrastructure projects to innovative technologies and impactful community solutions.
