The Mini-Grid Business

Send us a textWhat's the best way to house a mini-grid system in remote areas? Should developers opt for the plug-and-play convenience of containerized solutions, the flexible modularity of prefabricated structures, or the permanence of traditional powerhouses? This question lies at the heart of scaling sustainable energy access to millions without electricity.Recorded live at the Energy Access Investment Forum 2025 in Kampala, this episode brings together Julie Roberts from SustainSolar and Abishek Bharadwaj from Equatorial Power for an illuminating debate on mini-grid infrastructure. Julie champions containerized systems where all components are pre-integrated and tested before shipment, reducing on-site technical risks. Abhishek advocates for prefabricated panels that can be transported individually and assembled like "Lego blocks," offering unprecedented flexibility for expansion or relocation.The conversation reveals how terrain accessibility fundamentally shapes solution viability. While containers provide turnkey reliability, they require good roads and heavy equipment for installation. Prefab solutions excel in difficult terrains where panels can be hand-carried, while traditional construction, though permanent, introduces quality control challenges and extended timelines.Cost considerations extend beyond initial investment to long-term operational impacts. Both guests share fascinating real-world examples—from relocating entire mini-grid systems within days using prefab structures to designing container interiors like "Tetris puzzles" to maximize space efficiency. The discussion extends to critical factors like weather resistance, thermal management, and community engagement across different approaches.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

4/14/25 • 61:50

Send us a textMinigrids need scale to become profitable — and mergers & acquisitions (M&A) can be a powerful way to get there fast. But what does it really take to acquire or merge with another mini-grid company? How do you structure a deal that works?In this episode, host Kellie Murungi (INENSUS) sits down with Matthew Orosz (OnePower) and Prosper Magali (Ensol), who share firsthand insights from their recent M&A experience. Together, they unpack the challenges, breakthroughs, and practical lessons from the deal-making process.We also hear from legal expert Cynthia Opakas (Greenmax), who offers strategic advice on how to structure M&A transactions to ensure success and sustainability.This episode was recorded live at the 8th Mini-Grid Action Learning Event, held in Lusaka from April 1–3, 2025.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

4/7/25 • 63:13

Send us a textJoin Kellie, Diego, and Nico from INENSUS' management as they peer into the future of the mini-grid sector for 2025 and beyond. If you're still shaping your strategy for the year, this episode could offer valuable insights to guide your planning.Disclaimer: Projections discussed are speculative, and INENSUS assumes no liability for their accuracy.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

1/7/25 • 54:38

Send us a textIn recent years, DC mesh grids have gained recognition as a cost-effective and safe low-voltage solution for rural electrification, particularly for residential customers and small shops with power needs below 3-5 kW. In this episode, host Nico dives into the advantages and challenges of this emerging technology and the business models it enables. Joining the conversation are Afnan Hannan of OKRA Solar and Felix Boldt of Solarworx, two leading innovators in mesh grid solutions.The discussion explores how mini-grid and solar home system companies are deploying DC mesh grids, examining how these technologies can complement one another in the quest for sustainable rural electrification. Nico also delves into the key differences between OKRA Solar's and Solarworx's approaches, comparing their technology and CAPEX implications. Whether you're an industry insider or just curious about the future of off-grid energy, this episode offers valuable insights into this transformative technology.Okra SolarSolarworx – Advanced products for the off-grid marketLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

11/19/24 • 58:06

Send us a textMigration remains a pressing issue in Europe and the United States, often spurred by conflict but increasingly influenced by climate change as a root cause. In this episode, Nico Peterschmidt and Jakob Schmidt-Reindahl from INENSUS explore how rural electrification and industrialization in Africa can strengthen resilience against climate impacts, potentially reducing migration pressures on Europe in the future. They delve into actionable steps for implementing large-scale rural industrialization and why the moment to act is now. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

10/28/24 • 50:50

Send us a textCommunity-owned electric cooperatives transformed rural electrification in the USA, raising access from 10% to 90% in just 15 years starting in the late 1930s. This successful model has since been replicated in regions like South America and countries such as the Philippines and Bangladesh. In Africa, this movement is now beginning to take shape. In this episode, Doreen Chipika Bwalya and Frank Bergh from NRECA International discuss how electric cooperatives - rooted in member ownership and democratic governance - offer inclusive energy solutions while keeping electricity costs low. They also compare these community-driven models with investor-owned alternatives, shedding light on the seven cooperative principles that encourage local engagement and resilience.By combining the strengths of cooperatives in local management with the innovation and complexity-handling capabilities of for-profit mini-grid companies, synergies may emerge that could lower tariffs and speed up mini-grid deployment. Could this hybrid approach become a viable model for accelerating rural electrification in Africa?For more insight into NRECA's work, watch this video: https://youtu.be/gCOqxPax5lw?si=FgvN1BXim0a5c6H2 NRECA International would like to thank the USAID Cooperative Development Program for funding their work in Zambia and Malawi. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

10/2/24 • 57:28

Send us a textMinigrid scale-up efforts are currently falling short of meeting SDG 7 targets, particularly in Africa, where private minigrid companies must evolve and professionalize to achieve sustainable growth. With limited capital available for building the next generation of top-tier utilities, the sector faces a significant corporate financing gap. At the same time project finance tailored to minigrid needs remains scarce.In this episode, we delve into the complexities of minigrid financing with experts Cliff Aron from GreenMax Capital and John Ouko from the Africa Minigrid Developers Association (AMDA). We explore the historical challenges of rural electrification, emphasizing the urgent need for development capital to support emerging companies. We also discuss the transformative impact of investing $100 million in human resource development for selected developers and the creation of a billion-dollar minigrid infrastructure fund to attract private investment.Our conversation addresses the potential for a paradigm shift in minigrid financing, examining current and future financing instruments that could support this transition. We also consider the role of government in facilitating this shift and how minigrid companies might need to adapt their business models to align with the evolving financing landscape.Tune in to discover how innovative financing solutions can pave the way for a sustainable and scalable minigrid sector.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

9/2/24 • 58:21

Send us a textProject finance has been instrumental in scaling large, grid-connected renewable energy projects, with well-established approaches that have facilitated trillions of dollars in lending to the sector. The result has been access to low-interest, long-term financing. This is exactly what mini-grids need to achieve similar success and growth. Like large-scale renewable power systems, mini-grids are critical infrastructure, yet they face unique challenges, particularly the risk associated with selling power at the retail level. Additionally, mini-grids differ from large-scale renewable projects in their stakeholder structures.In this episode, Kellie Murungi, Head of Business Africa at INENSUS, joins host Nico Peterschmidt, CEO of INENSUS, to explore the principles of project finance and discuss what it will take to make mini-grids viable for this type of financing.Discover why a wave of mergers and acquisitions is anticipated in the mini-grid sector, and how diversifying revenue streams through rural industrialization, edge computing from surplus electricity, and renewable energy certificates can make mini-grids more attractive for project finance.  Additionally, learn how, over time, the financing sector may become more familiar with mini-grids as a new asset class.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

8/23/24 • 51:47

Send us a textMini-Grid CEOs have long voiced concerns over the inconsistent and overly complicated funding methodologies that vary significantly across different funders and countries, leading to prolonged delays in electrification efforts. Similar frustrations are echoed in the processes of securing equity and debt.Host Nico is joined by Kyle Schutter from Sunlight Reviews and Ashish Shrestha from the World Bank’s ESMAP to discuss these challenges. Kyle shares insights on how Sunlight Reviews is helping stakeholders better assess funder reliability and timelines, while Ashish explains how ESMAP is responding to industry feedback to improve program designs. This episode offers a deep dive into the efforts being made to streamline funding processes and accelerate progress in the Mini-Grid sector.Resources mentioned in this episode:Sunlight Reviews - Discover the Best Funders in Africahttps://80000hours.org/podcast/episodes/mushtaq-khan-institutional-economics/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

8/12/24 • 49:08

Send us a textInterconnected Mini-Grids provide reliable electricity to underserved main-grid connected customers.They are a new phenomenon in the mini-grid space and beyond that provide profitable investment opportunities to mini-grid companies thanks to significantly larger electricity demand in semi-urban areas, where interconnected mini-grids are typically situated compared to rural sites, where isolated mini-grids can typically be found.Can interconnected mini-grids become the "leapfrogging" opportunity that the sector has been waiting for?Aaron Cheng from Power Gen, operating an interconnected mini-grid in Nigeria and Chris Greacen who published a book covering the interconnected mini-grid subject discuss the above subjects with host Nico Peterschmidt.Resources: Mini Grid Solutions for Underserved Customers: New Insights from Nigeria and India Open Knowledge Repository (worldbank.org)Mini Grids for Half a Billion People: Market Outlook and Handbook for Decision Makers (worldbank.org)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

7/29/24 • 49:42

Send us a textIn this flagship episode, we uncover the transformative power of Rural Industrialization through mini-grids with insights from industry leaders Peter Nyeko of Mandulis Energy (Uganda), Camille André-Bataille of Anka (Madagascar), and Oluwatobi Soyombo of Havenhill Synergy Limited (Nigeria). The host Nico Peterschmidt of INENSUS (Tanzania, Uganda) contributes with his own experience in Rural Industrialization.We discuss - effort vs. profitability. - risk increase vs. decrease through linking two businesses to each other while diversifying revenue streams.- combining rural development with company profitability- how to scale electricity and product sales fastWe share lessons learned and obstacles overcome.Here are some resources mentioned in this epoisode:- KeyMaker Model fundamentals (afdb.org) - for the INENSUS' Rural industrialization model- AgriGrid - EnAccess - for the ANKA's Rural Industrialization model- Please also search the internet for "Reparle AND Uganda" to learn more about Mandulis Energy's Rural Industrialization modelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

6/27/24 • 98:41

Send us a textThis is part 2 of the meeting between Olu from "The Energy Talk" and Nico from "The Mini-Grid Business". In this session, we delve into the complexities, breakthroughs and innovations within the mini-grid industry based on Olu’s extensive knowledge of the electrification landscape across Africa.Below are some links to "The Energy Talk" -  listen to these highly informative and entertaining interviews! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-energy-talk/id1467655589https://open.spotify.com/show/4FQMxAZ43y6QIs5UtIHHfghttps://theenergytalk.simplecast.com/episodesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

6/7/24 • 15:59

Send us a textAs a podcaster, you meet people and gain a good overview of what the sector is all about. Therefore, it is sometimes enlightening to talk to fellow podcasters and get their view on the sector. That is exactly what Olubunmi Olajide from the podcast "The Energy Talk" and Nico Peterschmidt from "The Mini-Grid Business" did during the Energy Access Investment Forum 2024 in Lagos. This is part 1 of this recording, where Olu interviews Nico for his podcast "The Energy Talk".  As a listener of "The Mini-Grid Business," this might be more of a summary of familiar topics. In part 2, Olu and I will enter into a discussion about innovations in the mini-grid sector. Part 2 of the recording is published as a separate episode.Below are some links to "The Energy Talk" -  listen to these highly informative and entertaining interviews! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-energy-talk/id1467655589https://open.spotify.com/show/4FQMxAZ43y6QIs5UtIHHfghttps://theenergytalk.simplecast.com/episodesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

6/5/24 • 31:27

Send us a textMini-grid consultants support the establishment of regulation or grant funding programs for the sector, advise on transactions or conduct due diligences. However, recent years have seen growing tensions between consultants and mini-grid companies.  Host Nico confronts consultants Moses Kakooza (independent consultant, Uganda) and Maylis Bravard (INENSUS, francophone team) with some of the frustrations mini-grid companies express. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

5/21/24 • 62:29

Send us a textMini-Grid Due Diligences are always complex and costly? - Wrong!The Mini-Grid Due Diligence One-Stop-Shop established by INENSUS, DETAIL Solicitors and Steinbeis Consulting Impact Investing reduces complexities by providing one contact point for all parts of a mini-grid due diligence (demand, technical, commercial, legal, environmental, etc.). Efficiency and quality gains from this coordinated approach to mini-grid due diligences are the result and may even unlock financing for portfolios of projects that have so far been too small to run through a financing process.Listen to the commercial lawyer Dolapo Kukoyi (DETAIL) and the impact investing expert Lothar Jakab (Steinbeis) as they discuss the benefits of the Due Diligence One-Stop-shop with their host Nico Peterschmidt (INENSUS).Impact Investing (steinbeis.de)Detail Solicitors | Nigeria's first commercial solicitor form specializing exclusively in non-courtroom practiceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

5/8/24 • 27:03

Send us a textUnlock the hidden complexities of mini-grid company valuation with the brilliant minds of Brian Lukera Wambani from Camco and Michael Feldner from the GET.invest Finance Catalyst. This episode promises to equip you with the nuanced understanding required to navigate the valuation challenges faced by mini-grid enterprises, which operate at the crossroads of traditional utilities and agile startups. We tackle the pivotal questions: How do investors perceive the value of these companies, and what factors should CEOs and CFOs weigh when determining their company's worth?LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

4/24/24 • 42:31

Send us a textIn this episode, Aaron Leopold and Edwin Kwesiga from EnerGrow discuss the impact of introducing productive electricity in rural areas. The conversation covers the challenges and strategies of providing asset financing in rural small businesses in Africa, particularly for entrepreneurs and individuals with modest incomes.EnerGrow's approach, which combines technology with financial literacy, aims to improve accessibility and foster sustainable economic growth. The guests discuss building relationships with energy providers and the importance of scalability.The future of rural economies, with a focus on electric cooking and e-mobility, is also explored. Aaron and Edwin describe the role of mini-grids in supporting rural development and the potential to reverse urban migration trends. This episode presents a realistic look at the benefits and challenges of productive electricity use in rural settings.EnerGrow (ener-grow.com)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

4/10/24 • 53:27

Send us a textLearn from Lynne Wesonga of Crossboundary Access and Gillian-Alexandre Huart from ENGIE Energy Access about the untapped potential of integrating mini-grids, solar home systems and other power supply technologies under one unified management and financing structure. This innovative approach aims to harvest synergies, reduce costs, and improve profitability, thereby attracting new capital flows from climate financing and large-scale impact financiers.For this integrated approach to rural electrification to materialize, there is a clear need for adaptability in policy frameworks and tender designs. Governments and grant providers must consider these factors in the evolution of funding structures, paving the way for increased private capital inflow into the sector.  To make multi-technology approaches in rural electrification a reality, collaboration across all sector participants is required. That's why the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) is excited to bring you to the forefront of clean energy investment at the ARE Energy Access Investment Forum (EAIF) 2024, taking place in Lagos, Nigeria from May 21-23, 2024. ARE Energy Access Investment Forum 2024 (eaif.energy) CrossBoundary Access - Building the grid of the future ENGIE Energy Access: Best Solar Best Life - Engie (engie-energyaccess.com)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

3/27/24 • 56:09

Send us a textExplore with us Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), a potentially lucrative revenue stream for operators of renewable mini-grids. We delve into the various forms of RECs, including I-RECs, P-RECs, D-RECs, and R-RECs, breaking down their characteristics, differences, and unique features.Our expert guests Linda Wamune (P-RECs), Stuti Dubey (D-RECs) and Nicholas Selby (R-RECs) provide valuable insights into the appropriate contexts for using each type of REC and discuss which are the easiest to manage and which ones are best integrated into the marketplace. Additionally, we examine which RECs offer the highest potential revenues and which ones require the lowest level of effort to administer the REC registration and sales process.Links to the organizations participating in this episodes:Landing - D-REC Initiative (drecs.org)P-REC — Energy Peace PartnersR-RECsLinks to papers cited in the show:Power Africa Report showing that only 30% of the revenues are going to project developers: https://scms.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-11/Power-Africa-Carbon-Credits-for-OGS-Companies.pdfThe R-REC Standard: https://www.r-recs.com/The%20R-REC%20Standard.pdfThe I-REC Standard: https://www.trackingstandard.org/wp-content/uploads/The-International-Attribute-Tracking-Standard-v1.0.pdfUNFCCC tool to convert renewable energy generation from mini-grids into carbon reduction: https://cdm.unfccc.int/UserManagement/FileStorage/PC1WKORVI7DGMFS84L5N03JTXZBY9UFirst peer-reviewed, comprehensive socioeconomic impact analysis of mini-grids in rural Africa: https://arxiv.org/abs/2401.02445McKinsey report estimating VCM hitting $50B by 2030: https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/sustainability/our-insights/a-blueprint-for-scaling-voluntary-carbon-markets-to-meet-the-climate-challengeDaedal Research article showing global carbon market hitting almost $3T by 2028: https://www.researchandmarkets.com/report/carbon-creditGuardian article showing 90% of the carbon assets from one of Verra's sales were fraudulent: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jan/18/revealed-forest-carbon-offsets-biggest-provider-worthless-verra-aoeNew Yorker article about similar event: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/10/23/the-great-cash-for-carbon-hustleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

3/13/24 • 59:01

Send us a textEmbark on a journey to the heart of Africa's energy business, where the intricate dance of numbers in financial modeling for mini-grids is demystified. This episode brings the expertise of Kellie Murungi and Diego Perez to the table, guiding listeners through the numerical narrative that underpins the viability and strategic direction of renewable mini-grid initiatives. Uncover how these models serve as a compass, pointing towards the most promising project locations, robust implementation plans, and astute pricing tactics, ensuring that the light of sustainable energy continues to spread across the continent.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

2/28/24 • 71:26

Send us a textIn this episode, my guests Penny-Jane Cooke and Brian Kawuma from Power for All, Abraham Mudasia from AMDA, and William Brent from Husk Power, unravel the intricacies of establishing professional campaigns and advocacy to amplify the mini-grid sector's voice among policymakers, funders, financiers, and investors. We explore the synergies between marketing and advocacy, underscore the importance of backing mini-grid proponents within government ministries and regulatory bodies, and deliberate on potential sources of funding for these crucial activities. Finally, we discuss what effective messaging and appropriate communication channels might entail, aiming to craft strategies that resonate deeply with our intended audiences.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

2/14/24 • 68:38

Send us a textJoin us as we explore the future of solar mini-grid technology with INENSUS experts Dipta Majumder and Mike Arasa Ratemo. This episode illuminates the advancements in solar mini-grids, highlighting the shift from diesel generators to more eco-friendly solutions. We delve into component market price trends, the emergence of sodium-ion batteries, and the increasing influence of Chinese inverters, all pivotal in shaping the scalability and design of mini-grid systems.  Dipta, Mike and host Nico provide a deep dive into solar mini-grid technology, discussing everything from the technical aspects of battery systems to designing distribution networks for rural villages in developing countries and distributed generation nodes to avoid medium voltage network backbones.  The INENSUS experts envision a future where standardized, plug-and-play systems dominate the mini-grid landscape, discuss how the integration of advanced battery technology and mesh networks could lead to more accessible, cost-effective, and diesel-free mini-grid solutions. Tune in for an episode that promises to transform your understanding of solar mini-grid technology.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

1/31/24 • 52:55

Send us a textThe complexity of the mini-grid business stands at the forefront of Tobias Engelmeier from VIDA and Emily McAteer from Odyssey Energy's discussion, hosted by Nico Peterschmidt from INENSUS / MicroPower Manager Open Source. They explore how software can be a pivotal tool in managing the multifaceted challenges of this sector. Emily particularly highlights that the trajectory of mini-grid software development doesn't deviate significantly from patterns observed in other industries. Typically, individual companies start by developing their own bespoke solutions. However, as the industry matures, enterprise software becomes more prevalent, offering enhanced services at a lower cost compared to the operation of in-house developed software. This transition is crucial for mini-grid companies and the broader sector, promising significant benefits in terms of improved efficiency and user experience, especially for those who are price-sensitive.For more information about the work and services of todays contributors, you can visit the following websites:VIDA: https://vida.place/Odyssey Energy Solutions: https://odysseyenergysolutions.com/MicroPower Manager: https://www.micropowermanager.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

1/17/24 • 54:18

Send us a textEvery mini-grid construction is a high-stakes adventure, where the unexpected lurks at every turn. In this gripping podcast episode, my guests Chris Rollins and Davide Ceretti, take listeners on a thrilling journey into the heart of constructing solar mini-grids in Africa's most remote and challenging terrains. They reveal the daunting obstacles they face, from navigating harsh landscapes without proper machinery to the unpredictability of transportation. They present solutions to some of the largest challenges in mini-grid logistics and construction.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

1/3/24 • 56:34

Send us a textExplore the African mini-grid sector's pivotal moments in 2023 in this year-end episode. Join Joanis Holzigel, COO of INENSUS, and host Nico Peterschmidt as they reflect on the year's significant developments in mini-grids. Tune in for insights and see you in 2024!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

12/20/23 • 25:48

Send us a textHere is PART 2 of "Where to go next – Which countries are at the top of the funders’ list?". Enjoy!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

12/13/23 • 44:38

Send us a textEver wondered how mini-grid grant funders think, decide and act?In this insightful episode, we're thrilled to host a panel of experts from the forefront of funding Africa's mini-grid sector. Join us as Benjamin Curnier from AFDB SEFA, Tatia Lemondzhava from World Bank ESMAP, and Dennis Nderitu from GEAPP delve into the mechanics of driving mini-grid initiatives across Africa. They'll illuminate the strategic differences in funding pivotal projects by major institutions and the critical role of client governments in these endeavors. This is PART 1 of the discussion. PART 2 will be published one week after PART1.We begin by exploring the respective approaches of SEFA, ESMAP World Bank, and GEAPP in funding mini-grid projects, revealing the complexities of coordinating among each other, with other sector stakeholders and especially with the client governments. Our guests shed light on the crucial data and analytics driving these initiatives, showcasing how mini-grids can effectively bridge the electricity access gap.Shifting focus, we spotlight the African Mini-Grid Developers Association (AMDA) and its significant contributions in promoting mini-grids as a commercial reality. Hear about AMDA's efforts in capacity building, regulatory dialogue, research, and access to capital, all aimed at transforming the African energy landscape. We discuss the importance of a unified private sector voice for effective government engagement.This episode delves deep into the funding dynamics, revealing that it's not just the banks but the governments that define the flow of funds, leveraging the banks' knowledge and support for developing frameworks, laws, regulations, and procurement procedures. We highlight the vital role of private sector organizations like AMDA in these early decision-making steps and the necessity of building trust with governments through data-driven success stories.Discover how organizations like GEAPP and SEFA are overcoming the 'hen and egg' challenge by providing catalytic donor finance, demonstrating successful business models, and generating opportunities without indebting governments. They play a pivotal role in informing governments about the mini-grid sector's potential, carrying the opportunity cost on behalf of these governments.With the belief that the mini-grid sector is rapidly building trust between governments and the private sector, we anticipate a surge in countries taking loans for private-sector mini-grid grants under programs like the World Bank's DARES.Tune in for a comprehensive understanding of the intertwined roles of development banks, donors, and governments in shaping the future of sustainable energy through mini-grids.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

12/6/23 • 41:16

Send us a textIn this enlightening episode, join Jakob Schmidt-Reindahl and Nico Peterschmidt, co-founders of INENSUS and pioneers in the mini-grid domain, as they guide us through the evolution of third-generation mini-grids since the early 2000s. They delve into the significant developments in mini-grid policies, technological advancements, and funding over the past two decades.Our speakers highlight the transformative journey of the mini-grid sector, transitioning from being driven primarily by NGOs, cooperatives, and development cooperation to a domain where the private sector assumes a pivotal role as mini-grid operators. They fondly revisit the inception of the first mini-grid business models, notably discussing the early micro power economy and the innovative split asset model.Throughout the episode, Jakob and Nico offer invaluable lessons from their extensive experience. They explore the regulatory challenges and innovative solutions in African markets, where frameworks initially struggled to keep pace with the rapidly emerging mini-grid technology. Hear their firsthand accounts of navigating the regulatory terrain, engaging with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), developing rules that protect mini-grids from main grid encroachment, and contributing to the development of the interconnected mini-grid concept. They also discuss the synergy between mini-grids and healthcare infrastructure, exemplified by their impactful work in Sierra Leone post-Ebola crisis.As the dialogue unfolds, they examine the latest advancements, tracing the evolution from third to fourth-generation solar mini-grids and the achievement of vital profitability levels for scaling. The episode wraps up with strategic insights on mitigating demand risks for mini-grid operators. Learn about the innovative use of artificial intelligence and deterministic optimization in addressing these challenges, setting the stage for the future of mini-grid development.This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding the past, present, and future of the mini-grid business. It's packed with knowledge and insights from two of the industry's foremost experts.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

11/22/23 • 55:35

Send us a textIn this episode, we're graced by the presence of Anita Otubu from SE4All's Universal Energy Facility and Lamide Niyi-Afuye from the Africa Mini-Grid Developers Association. They offer a rich dialogue on the intricacies of the Universal Energy Facility, the dynamics of performance-based grants, and the strategy behind minimum subsidy tenders.Our exploration digs into the core of RBF schemes, weighing the pros and cons of uniform vs. personalized strategies within the mini-grid sphere. With precision, our guests unravel the convolutions of these funding mechanisms and the formidable task of mini-grid upscaling, highlighting the importance of comprehensive data, robust legal structures, and absolute transparency.A significant portion of the discussion addresses a complex yet critical question: How much complexity can be introduced to the operations of RBF funds and mini-grid companies to enhance profitability and build the necessary track record to draw more grant funding, all without compromising manageability?Additionally, we confront the catch-22 where grant funders seek market-creating projects with proven track records, yet such histories are scarce and closely guarded. We contemplate how to expedite the track record accumulation process, which is indispensable for convincing grant funders.By the end of this rich dialogue, listeners will be endowed with a granular understanding of RBFs in mini-grid market, ready to face its challenges and seize the  opportunities it presents.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

11/8/23 • 74:42

Send us a textIn this episode we are thrilled to host Grace Perkins, Chief Growth Officer of the African Mini-Grid Developers Association (AMDA), and Samuel Bunnya, Project Coordinator of the African Forum for Utility Regulators (AFUR). Together with the podcast's host Nico Peterschmidt, they unpack how the natural monopoly of a mini-grid can be steered by regulation that supports positive and collaborative effects while minimizing exploitation of power on all sides of this mini-monopoly.The fluid roles and responsibilities of various sector stakeholders emerge as a pivotal theme, with regulators facing the challenge of encapsulating these in concrete regulations. An intriguing point of debate is the potential for regulators to take on more active roles, even influencing subsidy decisions for specific projects.A core revelation of our discussion is the disconnect between current electrification plans and mini-grid regulations. Synchronizing these elements could pave the way for nations striving to fast-track mini-grid electrification.Reflecting on the sector's trajectory, it's clear that mini-grids, with their consistent provision of reliable electricity, have built a foundation of trust. This trust facilitates the development of detailed regulations, attracting a diverse array of industry participants and setting the stage for accelerated industry growth.Join us as we navigate the complexities and potentials of the mini-grid regulatory landscape, moderating stakeholders in the mini-grid mini-monopoly.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inensus-gmbh/mycompany/Twitter: INENSUS (@INENSUSgmbh) / X (twitter.com)Visit www.inensus.com for more info.

10/25/23 • 68:34