Genesis Energy Holding, a prominent Pan-African clean energy infrastructure development and asset management firm, has entered into a strategic collaboration agreement with Desert Technologies Industries Factory CJSC, a global leader in smart solar infrastructure based in Saudi Arabia. The agreement was officially signed during the 27th Africa Energy Forum (AEF 2025), a key event focused on energy investment and collaboration across the African continent. This new partnership builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier in the year in Dubai by Desert Technologies’ CEO, Khaled Sharbatly, and GENESIS’ Chairman, Akinwole II Omoboriowo. The MoU laid the foundation for a joint effort to develop and deploy clean energy solutions throughout Africa, incorporating both technical implementation and strategic financing components.
As part of the agreement, GENESIS’s solar and storage-focused subsidiary will become Desert Technologies’ preferred partner for the African market. Together, they will distribute and deploy high-efficiency solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage systems, focusing particularly on mini-grid and utility-scale solutions to improve energy access across the continent. A central feature of the partnership is the deployment of Desert Technologies’ Sahara system—a modular, containerised solar power solution designed for rapid installation. These systems are especially suitable for off-grid and remote communities, helping to address the energy needs of over 600 million people across Africa who still lack reliable access to electricity.
Mr. Akinwole II Omoboriowo, Chairman of Genesis Energy Holding, said in a statement, “This collaboration with Desert Technologies marks a significant step in GENESIS’s sustained upward trajectory mission to expand access to clean, reliable power across Africa. By leveraging D-T’s innovative solar products and our extensive experience in developing, financing and deploying sustainable energy infrastructure, we are not just providing power; we are empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and accelerating the continent’s transition towards a cleaner, more resilient energy landscape. This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to closing Africa’s energy gap and delivering impactful change.”
Khaled Sharbatly, Chief Executive Officer, Desert Technologies, commented, “This strategic partnership with GENESIS marks a new chapter in D-T’s mission to expand Saudi innovation into high-impact global markets. By combining our smart infrastructure solutions with GENESIS’s proven development platform, we are laying the groundwork for a long-term alliance that will accelerate Africa’s clean energy transformation—one project, one community at a time.”
Haytham Abdo, General Manager | Development, Desert Technologies, stated, “Our collaboration with GENESIS reinforces Desert Technologies’ commitment to developing practical, scalable solutions for energy access across Africa. By combining our Sahara and mini-grid systems with GENESIS’s execution capabilities, we are creating the foundation for long-term, sustainable energy independence in communities that need it most.”
Michelle Okoyomo, Vice President, Client Coverage (Investor Relations and Strategic Partnerships) at GENESIS, mentioned, “We are proud to partner with Desert Technologies as their preferred distributor. This partnership reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative and scalable energy solutions that meet the growing demand for renewables in emerging markets.” This partnership goes beyond technology, it’s about collaboration, local empowerment, and the shared belief that clean energy should be accessible to all.”
GENESIS brings to the partnership its extensive project pipeline of more than 4.5 gigawatts (GW), with over 458 megawatts (MW) already in operation or under construction. The company’s expertise in energy infrastructure development, financing, and implementation will complement Desert Technologies’ technological strengths. The partners also plan to explore project-specific joint ventures and financing mechanisms, such as Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and credit access through Saudi EXIM Bank and other export institutions.
To ensure effective implementation, a joint working group will be established to oversee the progress of the partnership. This group will focus on transparency, timely execution, and alignment with key environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The agreement aligns with broader objectives including Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and Africa’s growing ambition for a cleaner and more resilient energy future.
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