Oikocredit, in partnership with the Global Climate Partnership Fund (GCPF), has extended a USD 10 million debt facility to Sawa Energy to support the expansion of distributed solar and battery energy storage systems across East Africa.
The financing is expected to enable the deployment of approximately 35 MW of solar capacity across 250 commercial and industrial (C&I) projects over the next three years. The initiative aims to address persistent energy challenges in the region, including rising electricity tariffs, grid instability, and reliance on diesel-based power generation.
Sawa Energy provides fully financed solar and battery solutions under long-term service agreements, allowing businesses to access reliable and cost-effective clean energy without upfront capital investment. This model is designed to enhance operational reliability, reduce electricity costs, and support sustainable business growth while lowering carbon emissions.
Henna Savolainen, Senior Investment Officer at Oikocredit, stated that the partnership aligns with the organization’s strategy to advance energy security and climate goals, while delivering tangible benefits to businesses and communities.
The facility is also expected to strengthen Sawa Energy’s capital structure and attract additional investment into its growing project pipeline. By accelerating the deployment of tailored solar and storage systems, the partnership aims to contribute to improved energy access, reduced emissions, and long-term economic development in the region.
Samuel Kaufman, CEO and Co-founder of Sawa Energy, noted that access to reliable and affordable energy remains a critical barrier for businesses across East Africa. He added that the partnership would help scale clean energy infrastructure, enabling companies to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and lower their environmental footprint.
Sawa Energy develops, finances, builds, owns, and operates solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems for commercial and industrial clients under long-term contracts typically ranging from 10 to 25 years. The company also provides operations and maintenance services to ensure system reliability and performance throughout the contract lifecycle.
To date, Sawa Energy has deployed more than 65 solar installations across Rwanda and Uganda, serving sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, mining, hospitality, education, and commercial real estate. The company is continuing to expand its footprint across East and Southern Africa.
The partnership underscores the growing role of blended finance and private sector participation in accelerating clean energy deployment, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and supporting economic growth across emerging markets.
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