Masdar and Octopus Energy Partner to Accelerate Renewable Energy in the UK and Africa

Masdar, a global clean energy leader, and Octopus Energy, the energy technology company, have signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to advance renewable energy initiatives in the United Kingdom and Africa. The agreements were formalized during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the UAE.

The first MOU focuses on addressing grid constraints in the UK, particularly for data centres facing long delays in securing connections. The collaboration aims to unlock hidden capacity in the UK distribution network by designing smart, local energy systems that combine on-site solar, battery storage, and flexible grid connections. By leveraging Octopus’ Kraken-powered optimisation technology, the system will dynamically balance on-site generation, storage, and grid power to ensure reliable energy for AI workloads while reducing costs through optimized consumption.

The second MOU targets the scale-up of clean energy across Africa, focusing on commercial and industrial (C&I) users. The partnership will deploy local grids and distributed energy systems, harnessing Africa’s abundant solar and wind resources to boost industrial growth, job creation, and productivity. Projects will begin in South Africa, with plans to expand to other African nations.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, said, “Masdar and Octopus Energy share a commitment to expanding access to renewable energy and powering progress globally. Through these agreements, we aim to reimagine the potential of renewables in the AI era and bring clean energy to communities and businesses across Africa.”

Greg Jackson, Founder and CEO of Octopus Energy, added, “This partnership accelerates the delivery of cheaper, cleaner energy and unlocks real opportunities for businesses and industry. Masdar’s world-class vision aligns with our focus on driving value from renewables for countries and citizens alike.”

The collaboration aligns with Masdar’s Power Africa Initiative, part of the global “Scaling Up Renewables in Africa Campaign,” which seeks to catalyse $450 million in clean energy investments. The initiative will focus on grids, distributed assets, and technologies that deliver clean electricity directly to homes and businesses, supporting Africa’s economic growth.

This builds on Masdar’s 2023 framework agreement to license Octopus’ Kraken technology for flexible battery storage management in the UK, further strengthening the partnership between the two companies.