African Solar Industry Association (AFSIA) hosted its highly anticipated AFSIA Solar Awards 2024 on November 27, recognizing remarkable achievements, groundbreaking projects, and influential individuals driving the growth of solar energy across Africa. Held annually, the awards honor innovation and dedication in harnessing solar power to address energy challenges, bolster sustainable development, and transform lives across the continent.
Celebrating Achievements Across 14 Categories
This year’s awards shone a light on 14 categories, showcasing the diversity of contributions within Africa’s solar sector. From expansive utility-scale projects to life-changing community solutions, the winners embodied the innovative spirit propelling the continent’s renewable energy revolution.
Key Highlights from the 2024 Winners
Utility Scale Solar Project of the Year: Release by Scatec (Norway) was recognized for expanding its Maroua and Guider solar plants in Cameroon, adding 36 MWp and 9.6 MWh of capacity. This project significantly reduces reliance on thermal energy, generating cost savings and boosting sustainability.
C&I Solar Project of the Year: Ghana’s Dutch & Co. showcased leadership with its 16.82 MWp Helios Megawarehouse rooftop installation, redefining energy efficiency in commercial and industrial settings.
Mini-Grid Project of the Year: Engie Energy Access (Nigeria) was lauded for constructing 15 mini-grids, five of which are operational, in rural areas across Kogi, Nasarawa, and Niger States, bringing affordable, reliable energy to underserved communities.
SHS Company of the Year: d.light (USA) electrified 1.7 million homes in 2024, empowering rural households with solar home systems (SHS) and supporting sustainable economic development.
Productive Use Application of the Year:
Davis & Shirtliff (Kenya) developed solar-powered reverse osmosis (RO) water treatment systems, delivering clean water to off-grid areas.
So-Cool Energy (Nigeria) designed portable solar-powered refrigeration kiosks for small businesses in remote regions, promoting efficiency and economic growth.
Storage Project of the Year: Solar MD (South Africa) was recognized for its modular solar system supporting a poultry processing plant, integrating 2.4 MW per container and 4.862 MWh of battery storage to enhance sustainability in agriculture.
African Solar Company of the Year: Photons Energy (Tanzania) emerged as a leader with over a decade of success, boasting 4.5 MWp of installed capacity across multiple countries.
Solar Entrepreneur/SME of the Year: PowerNow (Nigeria) revolutionized access to solar energy for businesses through its digital platform, simplifying installations and financing for commercial and industrial users.
Honoring Visionary Leadership and Innovation
The awards also recognized trailblazing contributions in financing, advisory services, and technological advancements:
Miss Ismène AHAMIDE (Benin), CEO of ISMAST ENERGY, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her transformative work in advancing solar access across West Africa.
PAM-Ai (Nigeria) earned Solar Innovation of the Year for its AI-driven platform optimizing mini-grid performance with real-time dynamic tariffs.
Creative Recognition
Solar Picture of the Year: Photons Energy (Tanzania) captured the heartwarming role of solar energy in daily life.
Solar Video of the Year: CrossBoundary Energy (Kenya) showcased its collaboration with Rio Tinto to reduce emissions at a mining site through solar and wind integration.
A Testament to Africa’s Solar Potential
The AFSIA Solar Awards are more than accolades—they are a testament to Africa’s renewable energy momentum. These initiatives highlight the role of solar power in tackling energy poverty, promoting economic growth, and ensuring environmental sustainability.
John van Zuylen, AFSIA’s CEO, expressed pride in the winners:
“The winners of the AFSIA Solar Awards 2024 embody the innovative spirit, dedication, and impact that are driving the renewable energy transformation across Africa.”
Looking Ahead
As Africa embraces clean energy solutions, AFSIA’s Community Director, Josée Umugwaneza, emphasized the long-term impact of the awards:
“These projects and innovations will leave a legacy, accelerating Africa’s transition to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for generations to come.”
With initiatives like the AFSIA Solar Awards, the future of solar energy in Africa shines brighter than ever, positioning the continent as a global leader in renewable energy innovation.
For more information, visit AFSIA’s website.
Comentários