Table of Contents
Key Points
- Norman Moyo's Grid Africa teams up with TCL Solar to deploy solar and battery solutions across Zimbabwe and Zambia, boosting energy access.
- CEO Norman Moyo says Africa can leapfrog its energy crisis using telecom-style distributed power systems.
- Partnership aims to fast-track clean energy access, tapping Southern Africa’s strong grid and regulatory reforms.
Grid Africa, a Johannesburg-based solar energy firm, led by Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur Norman Moyo, has sealed a deal with TCL Solar to deploy cutting-edge solar and battery storage solutions across Zimbabwe and Zambia. This collaboration aims to address the pressing energy deficit in Sub-Saharan Africa, where many nations struggle to meet escalating power demands.
The deal is set to leverage advanced solar technologies, transforming energy access in the region. With Zimbabwe and Zambia’s robust transmission and distribution networks, alongside recent regulatory reforms, the partnership is positioned to fast-track the deployment of distributed energy systems that will help bolster economic development and regional integration.
Moyo’s vision for energy innovation
Norman Moyo, CEO of Grid Africa, stressed the need for disruptive energy solutions: "To overcome the energy crisis, we must embrace emerging technologies that can be swiftly deployed. Much like how the telecom sector revolutionized with GSM, we can replicate that success in energy by utilizing existing infrastructure and distributed systems."
The initiative aligns with Moyo’s broader vision of reducing Africa’s dependence on traditional utility grids by deploying solar energy solutions that are both scalable and adaptable to local conditions. This strategy is expected to unlock significant economic opportunities and promote sustainable growth.
TCL Solar’s commitment to Africa’s energy transition
TCL Solar brings industrial expertise to the table, contributing to the development of optimized solar modules that perform efficiently in high-irradiation environments like those in Zimbabwe and Zambia.
"By combining our advanced solar technology with Grid Africa’s local expertise, we are set to accelerate the energy transition in the region," said Tian Xu, TCL Solar GM for the MEA region. TCL has committed to deploying 100 MW of distributed energy solutions in these countries, aiming to enhance energy security while driving rapid development.
The partnership also capitalizes on the growing strength of the Southern Africa Power Pool, which has seen increased trading activity. This evolution provides a unique opportunity to leapfrog conventional infrastructure and implement scalable energy solutions. By focusing on rapid deployment, the collaboration is positioned to turn the current energy crisis into a launchpad for long-term, sustainable energy access.
Grid Africa’s continued expansion across Africa
Founded in 2015, Grid Africa has become a leading force in Africa's renewable energy sector, specializing in cost-effective solar solutions. CEO Moyo, with over 20 years in telecoms and renewables, also leads Distributed Power Africa.
Under his leadership, the company has gained recognition for reliable solar installations backed by comprehensive service packages. Grid Africa offers flexible financing, including 15-year power lease agreements, making solar more accessible.
Its partnerships, such as the 72 MW solar deal with Huawei for Zimbabwe's mining sector, and securing R50 million ($2.8 million) from Rifuwo Energy Partners for expansion in South Africa, further establish Grid Africa as a renewable energy leader in Africa. It’s latest partnership with TCL Solar is another step in Grid Africa’s mission to power Africa’s future sustainably.
