Salpha Energy, a provider of solar energy solutions in Nigeria, has been awarded a £25,000 grant from the prestigious Ashden Awards, supported by the department for Energy Security and Net zero, which aims to support the company’s mission to enhance the production of African-made solar systems and direct current (DC) appliances, facilitating Africa’s transition to clean and sustainable power.

The Ashden Awards annually highlight inclusive climate solutions that create a fairer world, lower emissions, and prepare communities for climate threats. The winners of the 2024 Ashden Awards were revealed during London Climate Action Week in Europe.

The Ashden Awards revealed Salpha Energy as one of the seven winners at the 2024 awards, held at the Institution of Engineering and Technology in London.

According to Salpha Energy, the £25,000 grant will support the company in scaling up their work by providing publicity, connecting with funders, investors, and leaders in the climate sector.

The company mentioned that as a producer of made-in-Africa solar systems and DC appliances, they help households and businesses transition to clean power by providing customers with access to affordable loans and financing. Since its inception, the company has empowered over 1.5 million people with reliable solar energy, installed more than 6.7 GWh of solar capacity, and reduced carbon emissions by over 4 million tons.

Founder and CEO of Salpha Energy, Sandra Chukwudozie, mentioned that with a production capacity of 300,000 systems per year from its assembly facility, Salpha has created over 1,050 direct and indirect jobs. The company is also pioneering gender inclusivity by attracting women to technical roles and providing training and mentorship, thereby promoting sustainable energy solutions and economic empowerment.

“Our selection as a finalist in the Ashden Awards is a testament to our unwavering commitment to transforming lives through energy freedom, having impacted over 1,500,000 people across communities in Nigeria and beyond, we are proud of the significant strides we’ve made in driving positive change,” she said.

Ashden CEO, Dr. Ashok Sinha stated that more than 500 organisations applied for the 2024 Ashden Awards. Salpha Energy was one of just two finalists in the Global South winners and categories, securing its place after a rigorous assessment and judging process that included input from sector experts, including academics, business leaders, investors, and journalists.

 “This year’s Ashden Award winners are worthy champions. They’re tackling the biggest climate challenges, in ways that also create important benefits like new green jobs and fairer societies. Their inclusive approach is key to their success. The 2024 winners have come through a rigorous assessment process, which confirmed their immense impact and their potential to do even more in the future. Passion, ambition: they’ve got it all. So now we urge investors, funders, policymakers and climate sector leaders to back and work with these trailblazers,” Sinha said.