The majority of Uganda’s 1M+ refugees lack access to clean and affordable energy. An opportunity exists for the private sector to collaborate with humanitarian organizations and development partners to provide market-based solutions and improve livelihoods in a commercially viable way.

It is estimated that USD 800 million in debt will need to be invested in solar home system businesses in Uganda to achieve universal energy access (SDG 7). Local banks and financial institutions need to recognize this opportunity and play a role in providing local currency debt financing.

This report is one in a series of insights on how to reach ‘unserved populations’ by targeting barriers to both ability to pay and willingness to pay, discussing challenges across affordability, access and awareness. Today, ~80% of Ugandans live without access to modern energy with an even larger concentration in Northern Uganda. Bringing energy to these households has become a central focus of Uganda’s development agenda. In order to develop strategies to serve these households, UOMA is conducting research and releasing insights on the topic.

Open Capital has partnered with the Shell Foundation to increase off-grid energy access & reduce market barriers