Supporting REAL clean energy solutions in Africa with an NDF Booster Grant

Read the full press release from REAL here.

This grant contributes to the REAL multi-donor facility and will finance preparation activities aimed at scaling sustainable pre-grid electrification models projects designed to provide universal energy access. It will support the REAL initiative to launch, develop, seed, scale, and operate these programmes.

"Access to reliable energy is a fundamental driver for development and climate solutions. Yet, in many rural communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, it remains out of reach. We’re proud to support REAL with a Booster Grant, supporting their environmentally sustainable model and access to energy through locally-led, innovative solutions. We look forward to seeing the meaningful impact REAL will create in the regions where these activities are needed the most," says Satu Santala, NDF Managing Director.

As part of its preparation activities, REAL project partners launched pilot projects in Malawi, Senegal, and Sierra Leone to rigorously test key elements of the Energy-as-a-Service model. Additionally, REAL project partners are actively engaging with government officials in each country to design and prepare for scaling up the pilots and, ultimately, to launch nationwide programmes once the REAL Facility is operational.

The NDF grant will be allocated to three key areas of the preparation activities, such as piloting project development in the countries, setting up the REAL Facility and developing REAL activity and stakeholder engagement.

In addition to providing financial support, NDF will actively collaborate with REAL, drawing on its extensive experience in launching and scaling facilities. This includes sharing technical insights and lessons learned to strengthen the capacity of the facility and ensure effective implementation.

Learn more about the project.

Photo: SolarAid