Mobile Solar Power-as-a-Service

The problem of electricity access challenges in adapting agriculture to climate change and supporting multifamily housing operation and informal communities in upgrading to low-carbon energy sources is a critical issue in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.

Globally, an estimated 1.1 billion people do not have access to electricity, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for a significant portion of this number. This lack of access to reliable electricity in sub-Saharan Africa hinders sustainable development and economic growth. In Nigeria, the problem is particularly acute, with only 45% of the population having access to electricity, and those who do have access experiencing frequent power outages. This has a significant impact on the agricultural sector, which is the largest employer in Nigeria and contributes about 25% of the country's GDP. Without reliable electricity, farmers struggle to irrigate crops and adapt to the catastrophic effects of climate change, store and process produce, and access markets.

In addition to the challenges in the agricultural sector, there is also a significant need for improved energy access in multifamily housing and informal communities. Globally, current housing drives 16% of global emissions from electricity and heating, while in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, many people live in substandard housing without access to reliable energy sources. This exacerbates health and safety risks and contributes to high levels of indoor air pollution.

The factors contributing to the problem of electricity access challenges are numerous, including inadequate investment in energy infrastructure, lack of access to financing, and regulatory barriers.

To address these challenges, innovative solutions are needed that can provide reliable and cost-effective electricity access to communities in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. This could include the deployment of mobile hybrid solar power plants that can be pre-configured and delivered as a service. By providing plug-and-play solar power solutions, communities can quickly and easily access clean energy, without the need for significant upfront investment or technical expertise. These solutions can also be designed to integrate climate risk into planning across all decisions, using improved data collection and analysis to inform infrastructure design and planning.

Moreover, the use of low-carbon energy sources such as solar power can reduce emissions from multifamily housing during construction, operation, and end-of-life while addressing barriers to local adoption. This will be particularly important in informal communities, where there is a significant need for improved access to energy sources that are affordable, resilient, and environmentally sustainable.

The Ceneco Green Power’s Mobile Solar Power Plant is a pre-configured, plug-and-play solar power solution designed to improve access to reliable and cost-effective electricity in communities facing electricity access challenges. The solution is offered as-a-service on a flexible lease contract, meaning that the power plant is leased to communities for a fixed period and the service includes installation, operation, maintenance and 24/7 technical monitoring of the power plant.

The Mobile Solar Power Plant uses photovoltaic panels to convert sunlight into electricity, which is then stored in batteries for use when the sun is not shining. The solution comes in different variance and could be made hybrid depending on the needs of the customers and or community. The power plant is mobile, which means it can be transported easily to different locations depending on the needs of the community. The power plant is designed to be scalable, which means it can be expanded as the energy needs of the community grow.

The solution is ideal for communities in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa facing electricity access challenges in adapting to climate change, as it provides a reliable and cost-effective source of electricity that is not dependent on fossil fuels. This solution is particularly important for communities in rural areas that are not connected to the national grid, as they often rely on expensive and unreliable diesel generators or kerosene lamps for electricity.

The Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution addresses the problem of electricity access challenges by providing a sustainable source of electricity that can be easily and quickly deployed. The solution helps support multifamily housing operation and informal communities in upgrading to low-carbon energy sources, as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes the use of clean energy.

In conclusion, the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution is an innovative and effective way to address the electricity access challenges facing communities in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. It provides a sustainable, reliable, and cost-effective source of electricity that supports climate change adaptation efforts and helps promote the use of clean energy in communities. Scale-down Product Pilot Video

The Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service can play a significant role in reducing emissions from multifamily housing during operation, supporting informal communities in upgrading to low-carbon energy sources, adapting land and coastal areas to more extreme weather, including through climate-smart agriculture.

The target population of the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service is multifamily housing residents, informal communities, and agricultural communities in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. These populations are often underserved with limited access to reliable and affordable electricity, which affects their ability to maintain their homes, businesses, and agricultural activities. Furthermore, these populations face significant environmental challenges, including droughts, flooding, and heat waves, which make it difficult to maintain a sustainable way of life.

The Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service will provide clean, reliable, and cost-effective electricity to these communities, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and lowering their carbon footprint. The solution's mobility and plug-and-play design make it accessible to communities in remote areas, and the pre-configured system ensures easy installation and operation. Additionally, the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service can be customized to fit the specific needs of different communities, ensuring that they have access to the energy they need to support their homes, businesses, and agricultural activities.

By providing access to clean, reliable, and affordable electricity, the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service can significantly impact the lives of the target populations. The multifamily housing residents will have access to energy-efficient appliances and lighting, reducing their energy consumption and lowering their electricity bills. The informal communities will be able to upgrade to low-carbon energy sources, reducing their carbon footprint and improving their living conditions. The agricultural communities will have access to the energy they need to support their farming activities, such as irrigation to adapt to climate change and refrigeration, improving their yields and incomes.

In conclusion, the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service can serve as a viable solution to reduce emissions from multifamily housing during operation, support informal communities in upgrading to low-carbon energy sources, adapt land and coastal areas to more extreme weather, including through climate-smart agriculture. The solution's mobility, plug-and-play design, and customizability make it accessible to different communities and context, ensuring that they have access to the energy they need to support their homes, businesses, and agricultural activities.

We are well-positioned to deliver the solution to the target population because of our depth of understanding and deep insight into the problem of energy challenges being faced by the communities we are serving, and the innovative solutions needed to ameliorate their pains. The team comprises individuals who have lived and worked in Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries for many years and have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by communities in these regions, particularly in terms of energy access.

The Team Lead and other team members have developed relationships with key stakeholders, including local government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations working in the region. These relationships have enabled the team to gain insights into the needs and priorities of the communities they serve, as well as the challenges that must be overcome to implement sustainable solutions.

The team is engaging with these communities through a range of channels, including community meetings, focus group discussions, and surveys. The team is actively seeking feedback and input from community members and other target clientele to ensure that the design and implementation of the Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution is guided by the users’ input, ideas, and agendas.

Moreover, the team has extensive experience in the renewable energy industry, with a focus on solar power systems. We have successfully implemented similar projects in Nigeria, demonstrating our technical expertise and ability to deliver sustainable energy solutions.

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We are applying to the Solve Climate Adaptation and Low Carbon Housing Challenge because we believe that the program's resources, network, and opportunities can help us scale our innovative solution quickly and have a greater impact on the communities we serve.

Some of the primary barriers Ceneco Green Power is facing is financial. While we have developed a proven solution, securing the necessary capital to expand the operations and reach more communities has been challenging. Ceneco Green Power team hopes that by participating in Solve, we can connect with potential investors, philanthropic organizations, and other partners who are interested in supporting innovative solutions that address climate change and promote sustainable development.

Additionally, the team is facing technical and market barriers. The Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service is a new approach to delivering renewable energy to communities that lack access to electricity. As such, there is a need for education and awareness-raising among potential customers, partners, and stakeholders. Ceneco Green Power hopes that through Solve, they can connect with experts and organizations who can help us develop effective marketing strategies, build partnerships with relevant stakeholders, and promote our innovative solution more widely.

Finally, the team recognizes the importance of engaging with local communities and tailoring the solution to meet their specific needs and priorities. To this end, the team is actively working to engage with communities and stakeholders to understand their energy needs and preferences, and to develop solutions that are culturally appropriate and aligned with local contexts. Ceneco Green Power hopes that by participating in Solve, we can connect with partners who can provide us with knowledge, expertise, and guidance to help us better understand the needs of the communities we serve, and to develop more effective clean energy solutions that are more responsive to their needs and preferences.

Our Solar Power Plant as-a-service is innovative in several ways. First, it is a mobile and flexible solution that can be quickly deployed to communities and geographical locations in need. Its modular design allows for easy customization to meet specific energy needs, and its mobility means that it can be transported to various locations as required. This is a departure from traditional power plants, which are often stationary and require extensive infrastructure to transport energy over long distances. More so, compare to the usual ways of carrying out solar energy installations which takes days, our pre-configured plug and play solar power plant is installed and commissioned swiftly.

Secondly, the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service is a low-carbon energy source that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is particularly important in sub-Saharan Africa, where many countries still rely on fossil fuels as their primary source of energy. By providing a clean and sustainable alternative, Ceneco Green Power is leading the way towards a more sustainable future for the region.

Thirdly, the solution is designed to address the needs of underserved communities, particularly those in multifamily housing and informal settlements. These communities often lack access to reliable and affordable energy sources, and the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service is uniquely positioned to meet this need. By providing energy solutions to these communities, Ceneco Green Power is not only improving their quality of life but also helping to bridge the energy access gap in the region. Finally, the Ceneco Green Power Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service has the potential to catalyze broader positive impacts in the clean energy space. By demonstrating the viability and scalability of mobile solar power solutions, it could inspire other innovators to explore similar solutions in different contexts. This could lead to a proliferation of mobile and flexible clean energy solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of different communities.

Ceneco Green Power's impact goals for the next year and next five years are to:

• Provide access to clean and reliable electricity to 10,000 households and small businesses in underserved communities in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa by deploying 100 Mobile Solar Power Plants as-a-service.
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50,000 tons CO2 equivalent annually through the displacement of fossil fuel-based electricity generation.
• Support the creation of new green jobs, particularly for women and youth, in the renewable energy sector.
• Build local capacity by training and employing community members to operate and maintain the Mobile Solar Power Plants and provide educational programs on energy efficiency and conservation.

To achieve these impact goals, Ceneco Green Power plans to:

• Secure funding and investment from impact investors, foundations, and other organizations committed to sustainable development.
• Develop partnerships with local governments, NGOs, and community organizations to identify and target underserved communities in need of clean energy solutions.
• Deploy the Mobile Solar Power Plants to more target electricity customers, to further test and refine the model.
• Establish a local supply chain for the production, maintenance, and repair of the Mobile Solar Power Plants, creating new jobs and economic opportunities.
• Develop educational programs and materials on energy efficiency and conservation to promote sustainable energy use in the target communities.

Through these efforts, Ceneco Green Power aims to have a transformative impact on the lives of people in underserved communities in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, improving their access to clean and reliable electricity, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, and creating new economic opportunities in the renewable energy sector. Additionally, the deployment of the Mobile Solar Power Plants and the promotion of sustainable energy practices will contribute to mitigating climate change and enhancing climate resilience in these regions.

Ceneco Green Power is committed to achieving measurable impact through its Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution. To measure progress towards the impact goals, Ceneco Green Power will use a range of indicators associated with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that align with the solution.

Specific indicators that Ceneco Green Power will use to measure its progress towards the impact goals include:

• Number of households and communities served: Ceneco Green Power aims to reach a significant number of households and communities with its Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution and will track the number of households and communities served over time.
• Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions: The solution aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing a clean and renewable source of energy. Ceneco Green Power will measure the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions achieved through the use of its solution.
• Increased access to affordable and clean energy: The solution aims to increase access to affordable and clean energy for underserved communities. Ceneco Green Power will track the number of households, communities and businesses that gain access to affordable and clean energy through the use of its solution.
• Improved livelihoods and socio-economic development: The solution aims to improve the livelihoods and socio-economic development of underserved communities. Ceneco Green Power will track indicators such as income levels, employment opportunities, and access to education and healthcare services.

The Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution from Ceneco Green Power approaches the problem of energy poverty in a new and significantly improved way. The solution leverages the latest technology in renewable energy and mobile power plants to provide affordable and clean energy to underserved communities. The solution is designed to be highly scalable, allowing it to reach a large number of households and communities in a cost-effective manner.

The impact of the solution could catalyze broader positive impacts from others in this space by demonstrating the viability and effectiveness of providing clean and renewable energy to underserved communities. The solution could inspire other organizations to develop and implement similar solutions, leading to a significant reduction in energy poverty and greenhouse gas emissions globally.

In terms of changing the market, the Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution from Ceneco Green Power could disrupt the traditional energy market by providing a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The solution could also provide new business opportunities for energy companies and entrepreneurs looking to enter the renewable energy sector. Additionally, the solution could drive innovation in the renewable energy sector by demonstrating the potential for mobile power plants and other innovative technologies to address energy poverty and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The theory of change for Ceneco Green Power's Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution is centered around providing clean, affordable, and reliable energy to communities in agrarian, underserved and informal areas. By deploying mobile solar power plants, Ceneco Green Power aims to provide access to electricity for households, schools, hospitals, and small businesses, improving their quality of life and economic opportunities.

The logical framework for this solution includes several key components. First, Ceneco Green Power will identify communities in need of electricity and assess their energy requirements. Second, the company will deploy mobile solar power plants, which are designed to be easy to transport, set up, and maintain. Third, Ceneco Green Power will provide ongoing support and maintenance to ensure the continued operation of the plants. Finally, the company will work with communities to educate them about the benefits of clean energy and how to make the most of the power plants.

Ceneco Green Power's theory of change is based on the belief that access to clean energy can have significant positive impacts on communities. By providing reliable and affordable electricity, the company hopes to improve health outcomes, increase economic opportunities, and reduce poverty. The solution is also expected to have a positive impact on the environment by reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

To support the theory of change, we plan to collect data on a range of indicators, including the number of households, schools, hospitals, and small businesses that have access to electricity, the amount of carbon emissions avoided, and the economic impact of the solution. The company will also gather feedback from the target population to assess their satisfaction with the solution and identify areas for improvement.

Ceneco Green Power's Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution is powered by a combination of innovative solar panel technology, lithium-ion battery storage module and smart energy management systems. The solar panels convert solar energy into electricity, which is stored in a battery bank. The smart energy management system regulates the power supply to ensure efficient energy use, preventing any wastage of power. This technology helps to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and provides a sustainable and renewable energy solution for remote and off-grid areas.

What makes the solution innovative is the fact that it is mobile and modular, making it easy to transport and install in remote and underserved areas. The modular design of the system also allows for scalability, making it possible to meet the varying energy needs of different communities and contexts. Moreover, the solution is provided as a service, allowing communities to access clean energy without having to worry about the upfront costs associated with purchasing and maintaining the system.

The technology behind the Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution has the potential to catalyze broader positive impacts by promoting the use of clean energy and reducing the carbon footprint. The system can be deployed in various off-grid and remote areas, providing access to electricity to communities that previously had no access to it. This can help to improve the overall standard of living and quality of life for these communities, especially in terms of education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities.

In terms of changing the market, the Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution has the potential to disrupt the traditional energy sector by offering a sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective alternative. As more and more communities and businesses seek to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to clean energy sources, the demand for solutions like Ceneco Green Power's Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution is likely to increase. This can help to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable and renewable energy future.

In conclusion, Ceneco Green Power's Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution is powered by innovative solar panel technology and smart energy management systems. The modular and mobile design of the system makes it easy to transport and install in remote and off-grid areas, and the service-based model makes it accessible to communities that previously had no access to clean energy. The technology has the potential to catalyze positive impacts by promoting the use of clean energy and reducing the carbon footprint, and it has the potential to disrupt the traditional energy sector by offering a sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective alternative.

Ceneco Green Power is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within its organization as well as in the communities it serves. As a company, we understand that DEI is essential to achieving our mission of developing and scaling Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution.

Diversity is a critical component of our approach to DEI. Our leadership team is comprised of individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. We recognize that this diversity brings a range of perspectives and ideas that are essential to solving complex problems and driving innovation. Our team includes individuals from different countries, ethnicities, genders, and age groups, who bring unique experiences, knowledge, and perspectives that enable us to develop solutions that are relevant and effective.

Our team's goals for becoming more diverse, equitable, and inclusive include creating an environment where all team members feel valued, respected, and supported, regardless of their background or identity. We want to ensure that everyone has access to equal opportunities for growth and advancement within the company. To achieve these goals, we have taken several actions, including implementing diversity and inclusion training for our employees, promoting employee resource groups, and partnering with organizations that promote DEI.

One of our most significant actions to promote DEI is our commitment to working with local communities to provide access to affordable and reliable energy solutions. We recognize that marginalized communities often face unique and systemic barriers to accessing energy solutions, and we aim to address these challenges by providing Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution to these communities. By working with local organizations and community leaders, we can ensure that our solutions are relevant and effective in meeting the unique needs of each community we serve.

In addition, we have implemented policies and practices that promote DEI within our organization. For example, we have implemented flexible work arrangements to accommodate diverse schedules and personal responsibilities. We also promote diversity in hiring and strive to create a culture of inclusivity where everyone feels welcomed and valued.

In conclusion, Ceneco Green Power's approach to DEI is integral to our mission of developing and scaling Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential components of innovation and progress. By promoting DEI within our organization and in the communities, we serve, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Ceneco Green Power is a clean energy solutions provider that offers a Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution among other innovative services to deepen reliable and clean energy access. This business model aims to provide clean energy to communities and electricity users in Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries, where access to electricity is limited, unreliable, or non-existent.

Key Customers and Beneficiaries: The key customers of Ceneco Green Power are rural communities especially agrarian, businesses, multifamily housing estates, and government authorities that are not connected to the main power grid or have unreliable access to electricity. The beneficiaries of the Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution are the households, schools, healthcare centers, and other businesses that require electricity to function.

Products or Services: Ceneco Green Power provides a Mobile Solar Power Plant, which is a self-contained solar energy system that can be transported to locations where the solution is needed. The Mobile Solar Power Plant includes solar panels, battery modules, smart hybrid inverters, and other power electronic components required to generate, store, and distribute electricity. The system can generate from 2kWp and above of power and can provide electricity for up to 24 hours a day.

How the Products or Services are Provided: Ceneco Green Power deploys the Mobile Solar Power Plant to the customer's location and provides installation, maintenance, and monitoring services. The company offers flexible payment options, including pay-per-use or lease-to-own, or outright purchase to make the solution affordable for its customers. The company's team of technicians and engineers provides on-site support to ensure that the system is functioning optimally and to address any issues that may arise.

Why Customers Want or Need the Clean Energy Solution: Customers want or need the clean energy solution because it provides a reliable and affordable source of electricity. In many parts of Nigeria, access to electricity is limited, unreliable, or non-existent. This makes it challenging for households, schools, healthcare centers, and businesses to function effectively. The Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution provides a sustainable and cost-effective way to meet the energy needs of these communities. Additionally, the use of solar energy helps reduce carbon emissions and promotes sustainable development.

Revenue Model: Ceneco Green Power generates revenue by offering the Mobile Solar Power Plant as-a-service solution to its customers. The company charges customers based on their usage, offering flexible payment options, including pay-per-use or lease-to-own and or outright sales. The company also provides maintenance and monitoring services for an additional fee at the end of contract or if its outright sales. By offering a complete solution that includes equipment, installation, and support, the company can capture more value from its customers and ensure that the system is functioning optimally.

Ceneco Green Power's plan for becoming financially sustainable is based on several revenue streams that will allow the company to fund its operations and expand its reach beyond Nigeria. The company's strategy involves a combination of selling products and services, service contracts to governments, and raising investment capital.

Revenue Streams:

1. Sale of Mobile Solar Power Plants: Ceneco Green Power generates revenue by selling its Mobile Solar Power Plants to rural communities, small businesses, and local governments. The company offers flexible payment options, including pay-per-use or lease-to-own, to make the solution affordable for its customers.
2. Service Contracts with Governments: The company also generates revenue by entering service contracts with governments (i.e., federal, state, local authority, or their agencies) to provide clean energy solutions for public facilities such as schools, healthcare centers, and government infrastructures and buildings.
3. Grants and Funding: Ceneco Green Power has received grants and funding from various organizations to support its work in promoting sustainable development in Nigeria. The company intends to continue applying for grants and funding to support its research and development efforts and expand its operations especially in the underprivileged communities.
4. Investment Capital: Ceneco Green Power plans to raise investment capital to expand its operations and increase its reach in Nigeria and beyond. The company will seek funding from investors who share its vision of promoting sustainable development and providing clean energy solutions to underserved communities.

Long-Term Financial Sustainability: Ceneco Green Power's revenue streams are designed to cover the company's expected expenses in the long term. The company plans to use a portion of its revenue to invest in research and development and improve its products and services. By offering a complete solution that includes equipment, installation, and support, the company can capture more value from its customers and ensure that the system is functioning optimally, which will help generate repeat business and increase customer loyalty.

Ceneco Green Power's business model and revenue streams are aligned with the company's mission of promoting sustainable development and providing clean energy solutions to underserved communities and anywhere that reliable energy is required. By offering a complete solution that includes equipment, installation, and support, the company can capture more value from its customers and ensure that the system is functioning optimally, which will help generate repeat business and increase customer loyalty. Through the combination of sustainable revenue streams, the company is well-positioned to achieve its long-term financial sustainability goals while continuing to make a positive impact on the communities it serves.

Ceneco Green Power has made significant progress towards achieving financial sustainability through its successful revenue streams and funding initiatives. Here are some examples:

1. Sale of Solar energy solution: Ceneco Green Power has generated significant revenue by selling its solar energy solutions since it began operation fully in 2017 from customers which ranges from rural communities, small businesses, and local governments. For our Mobile Solar Power Plants, we have concluded the pilot and the solution is still providing clean energy solutions to underserved communities and generating revenue for the company.
2. Grants and Funding: Ceneco Green Power has received grants and funding from various organizations to support its work in promoting clean energy in Nigeria. In 2017, the company received $5,000 from the Tony Elumelu Foundation and in 2020 received about $20,000 from the Roddenberry Foundation. In early 2023, we received a $1,500 grant from the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering to support the pilot of our Mobile Solar Power Plants. We believe the solution is well positioned to receive grant and patient capital support to scale the solution.
3. Investment Capital: Ceneco Green Power is currently raising investment capital to expand its operations and increase its reach in Nigeria. The company is raising $250,000 in seed funding from private investors in 2023 to support its growth and expansion plans.