We launched our CSR activities in 2016. Coming from a utility perspective, we recognized that delivering CSR embedded in a comprehensive for-profit business model can be beneficial for both communities and the business.
Therefore, we have made our CSR strategy an integral part of our business model to enable as many communities as possible to profit from access to stable and clean energy at a price they can afford.
In line with our mission to electrify new markets, we recognized the powerful opportunity to pair our core activities in clean energy with other complementary off-grid and distributed solar energy solutions.
Our intention is to roll out multiple off-grid initiatives alongside our utility-scale developments, to maximize the impact of individual projects and provide clean, reliable and affordable energy to rural communities.
We partnered with DP World for a pilot project to deliver a solar powered classroom for SOS Sheikh School in Berbera, Somalia. An empty shipping container was converted and fitted as classroom. Phanes Group donated and installed the solar panels on the rooftop to provide clean electricity.
The classroom was shipped to the school so that the students can have an educational space for different courses, including sustainability. While the container will supply the community with a valuable learning space, our solar energy system provides electricity to power the lighting and charging points for school equipment.
Benefits:
Recognizing a pressing need for irrigation infrastructure in Africa, we delivered a pilot project to provide cooperative rice farmers in Nigeria with solar-powered water pumps, supporting local agriculture while replacing inefficient and costly diesel generators. The pumps helped to significantly increase the farmers’ agricultural productivity, as irrigation was no longer limited to the availability of diesel. This system can help reduce the need for import of expensive produce and strengthen the self-sustainability of local farmers.
Benefits:
