Spark has partnered with SOL! Groupe as their preferred manufacturer and supplier of the Spark Kit solar home system, with distribution now underway in Chad and soon the Central African Republic.
Spark provides inventory to SOL! Groupe with pay-as-you-go (PAYGo) instalment payment options for end-users in Chad and the Central African Republic. In both countries, the population with energy access is among some of the lowest in the world. In Chad, the electrification rate outside urban areas is less than 5%, whilst the Central African Republic sees rural energy access rates as low as 0.4%.
Traditionally, these markets have been overlooked by energy companies. They are difficult to operate in due to tough financing conditions and sparse populations in extremely remote and rural areas. But now, with expert support from the Spark Invest programme, SOL! Groupe can expand into these historically underserved regions.
An initial shipment of Spark Solar Kits has already arrived in Chad, with a furthermore on the way to the Central African Republic as well. This partnership will help meet the energy needs of peri-urban and rural households with reliable, affordable and sustainable solar home systems.
SOL! Groupe’s operations in Chad are primarily in N’Djamena and Moundou, covering the entire territory while in the Central African Republic, its focus is on Bangui and Boali, with a network being developed to expand its reach.
Starting this partnership with Spark is a significant step towards addressing the critical energy needs of peri-urban and rural communities in Chad. With an electrification rate of less than 5% outside urban areas, we see an urgent demand for reliable and quality solar kits. The introduction of Spark’s lithium solar technology and modular battery systems, along with flexible financing options through our Chadian partners or instalment payments, will empower these households by providing them with a reliable energy source and improving their daily living conditions. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this partnership. Meet our teams in N’Djamena, Moundou, and beyond.
Marc Giordano, General Manager – SOL! Tchad
We are thrilled to partner with Spark to bring reliable and efficient solar energy solutions to the Central African Republic. Our focus on Bangui and Boali is just the beginning, as we aim to extend our reach across the entire national territory. The demand for quality solar kits is high, especially in rural and peri-urban areas where access to traditional electricity is extremely limited. With Spark’s innovative technology and flexible payment options, we are confident that we can significantly improve the quality of life for many households by providing them with stable and sustainable energy solutions.
Yvon Dokoula, General Manager – SOL! Centrafrique