Solio uses microfinancing to provide solar chargers in rural Kenya
The micro-financing model was just recently announced, according to Hansel.“We’re able to employ people and get people access to clean power. We’re giving them a way to use clean power and spend less on energy than on kerosene,” he said.
Each system includes a Solio charger (a relatively small, tough and lightweight unit with photovoltaics , a battery pack and a usb port), a usb powered radio, an LED light and a usb splitter cable, allowing the user to charge or use multiple devices at the same time, including their phone.
Under the program, which is financed through Kiva, an agent leases 10 photovoltaic chargers through a small business loan, according to Hansel.
“Then, what they do is lease these kits to our people, and there’s a key that allows us [or the agent] to authorize the device to work for a week,” he said.
The key looks like a flash drive. After the week, the user will have to pay to get the device reauthorized to provide power for the next week, providing revenue for the agent and paying for the systems.
