Schneider Electric Showcases Decentralized Solar and Digital Solutions to Close Africa’s Energy Gap at Nairobi Forum

 

Nairobi, Kenya | April 21, 2026 — As the Energy Access Investment Forum (EAIF) 2026 opened its doors today at the Safari Park Hotel, Schneider Electric issued a powerful call to action: moving beyond simple electrification to foster "energy democracy" across Sub-Saharan Africa.

he global energy technology leader used the forum to pivot the conversation from centralized infrastructure to decentralized, community-led solutions that empower the 666 million people globally—the majority of whom reside in this region—who still lack basic power. At the heart of Schneider Electric’s showcase is the Climate Smart Village model. Far from a standard solar installation, this inclusive, technology-driven approach treats energy as a foundation for broader social and economic transformation. By integrating smart technology with vocational training and support for local entrepreneurs, the model ensures that electricity doesn't just light a room—it builds a business.

Access to energy must go hand in hand with strengthening human capacity and fostering local entrepreneurship," noted Ayush Gupta, Director of Global Strategy & Business for Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric. "Since 2009, we have integrated clean electricity with vocational training and impact investing, ensuring communities gain long-term self-reliance to power their own progress

Schneider Electric highlighted several key innovations currently being deployed to meet its global goal of impacting 100 million people by 2030:

·         Homaya Advanced Solar Solution: A ruggedized, clean energy system designed for "last-mile" communities, providing reliable power for healthcare clinics, schools, and small shops.  

·         EcoStruxure™ Energy Access: A digital monitoring platform that allows for remote oversight, ensuring that vital infrastructure remains operational and efficient long after the initial installation.

·         Altivar Solar ATV320: A specialized solar-powered water pumping solution. By adapting to available solar energy in real-time, it allows farmers to automate irrigation, significantly boosting agricultural yields and food security in off-grid regions.

The potential for these solutions is best illustrated by the success of the Climate Smart Village in Jharkhand, India. By deploying an 85 kW solar system, the program enabled local farmers to double their household incomes over four years and drastically reduced seasonal migration. Ifeanyi Odoh, Country President for Schneider Electric East Africa, believes this success is a blueprint for the continent. "Through the Climate Smart Village solution, decentralized renewable energy connects energy access with social progress. It helps communities across Sub-Saharan Africa build a more sustainable and resilient future.

Schneider Electric’s commitment is backed by measurable results on the ground:  61.7 Million: People currently reached with clean electricity access..11,000+: Entrepreneurs supported across 60 countries. 1 Million+: Individuals empowered through training and economic initiatives. As EAIF 2026 continues throughout the week, Schneider Electric remains focused on forging the partnerships necessary to solve the "energy trilemma"—ensuring that power is not only available but is affordable and reliable for all. 

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader driving efficiency and sustainability. With 160,000 employees and one million partners in over 100 countries, the company is consistently ranked among the world’s most sustainable organizations.