Entrepreneurs in Nairobi make the case for going solar

Entrepreneurs in Nairobi are championing solar energy solutions to address electricity access challenges and support local businesses. Milcah Wanjiru, a shop owner in Nairobi, utilizes a solar-powered grain milling machine, a significant shift from the diesel-powered mills common in many low-income areas. This solar mill allows her to offer milling services and stock additional goods, diversifying her income. The economics of solar technology have improved dramatically, with panel costs decreasing from approximately $3 per watt a few years ago to just cents. Agsol, the company that designed Wanjiru's mill, is actively seeking customer feedback to refine its products. Wanjiru noted an issue with the mill occasionally jamming, which Agsol CEO and cofounder Matt Carr explained is due to the machine automatically slowing down to optimize flour extraction from damp grains. Kenya aims for universal electricity access by 2030, with off-grid solar playing a crucial role in reaching communities not yet connected to the centralized grid, which already relies heavily on renewables. This initiative supports both environmental goals and economic development by providing reliable and cleaner energy alternatives.