The UK has announced a significant £14 million ($17.4 million) investment to expand clean energy access across Africa, aiming to address energy poverty and accelerate the continent’s renewable energy transition. Africa Minister Lord Collins unveiled the new initiatives during the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
The Mission 300 initiative aims to connect 300 million people in Africa to electricity by 2030, tackling the urgent challenge of energy access for a population where 600 million currently live without power.
Lord Collins announced two major funding initiatives. A £5.3 million ($6.6 million) for MOPO where British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution, is partnering with UK cleantech company MOPO to expand pay-per-use battery rental services in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where over 80% of the population lacks electricity.
Another £8.5 million (10.6 million) for SEFA which is additional support for the African Development Bank’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) will back renewable energy projects, including solar-powered mini-grids, energy efficiency improvements, and clean cooking initiatives.
Lord Collins stated, “Connecting the continent to clean, reliable energy is vital. UK support is helping millions gain access through sustainable solutions, deepening our partnerships and driving green growth.”
The funding is expected to unlock private sector investment in renewable energy projects, advancing the development of solar energy, clean technology, and energy-efficient solutions. This initiative is part of the UK’s Africa Regional Climate and Nature Programme (ARCAN), designed to accelerate Africa’s transition to sustainable energy.
Rachel Kyte, the UK’s Special Representative on Climate said, “Reliable, affordable, and clean energy is key to economic growth and tackling climate change. Ending energy poverty supports inclusive growth and resilience, benefiting communities and the environment alike.”
The MOPO initiative is projected to reach over one million people in the DRC, a country with one of the lowest electricity access rates in the world. Meanwhile, Tanzania continues to strengthen its energy partnership with the UK, having been one of the first nations to join the UK’s Global Clean Power Alliance.
Leslie Maasdorp, CEO of BII commented, “Our investment in MOPO demonstrates how early-stage solutions can expand energy access for millions across Africa.”
The UK’s funding commitments align with its broader “Plan for Change,” which aims to transform the country into a clean energy leader by 2030. By supporting renewable energy in Africa, the UK is fostering global efforts to combat climate change while promoting economic growth and sustainable development.
