Peco Power empowers rural community with Rent-to-Own Electricity
- Peco Power
The pioneering technology from Wits is transforming energy access with its new impact-driven Champion Franchise Model.
Peco Power, a trailblazer in sustainable energy solutions developed at Wits University, recently introduced this innovative approach, a Rent-to-Own Electricity and Champion Model, to the Nomzamo Agricultural Village in Ermelo in Mpumalanga, South Africa.
In bringing reliable electricity to the Nomzamo community, Peco Power addresses energy access challenges and it creates a unique opportunity for young and unemployed community members to become independent local agents of Peco Power’s Powerbrick solutions, referred to as Champions.
Nomzamo Agricultural Village, like many rural areas, has struggled with consistent electricity access, hindering daily life and economic development. In response, Peco Power has collaborated closely with community leaders and other stakeholders who were identified and introduced to Peco by GreenCape, to offer a suitable solution that meets local needs effectively.
Nomzamo residents have access to a PowerBrick™ solution that offers safe lighting and reliable cell phone charging. The PowerBrick™ is a solar powered smart energy solution for communities requiring off-grid electrification. It is modular and expandable, allowing users to increase their power and energy capacity as they grow their system with the addition of more Powerbricks™. These key features allow individuals to climb the energy ladder whilst maintaining eco-friendliness as existing units are not disposed of but become integrated into their existing system.
Facilitated by GreenCape, in partnership with the Royal Danish Embassy, who supported this initiative, Nomzamo residents access their PowerBrick™ system on a (subsidised) R99 a month rent-to-own subscription, for the duration of 12 months.
This initiative aims not only to improve quality of life for Nomzamo residents but to empower selected unemployed youth within the community. Independent local Champions play a pivotal role in fostering the adoption and utilisation of PowerBricks through community engagement and personalised support, whilst prioritising ongoing customer care. They receive comprehensive training, support and compensation that enables them to operate as entrepreneurs within their community. This approach fosters local economic growth and strengthens community resilience by creating sustainable energy infrastructure managed by local residents.
"We are excited to launch this integrated initiative in Nomzamo, which combines access to clean energy through economic empowerment," said Dorian Wrigley, CEO of Peco Power. "Our Champion Model not only addresses energy poverty but also creates opportunities for community members to become owners of sustainable energy enterprises."
Peco Power is committed to providing ongoing support and customer service to ensure that residents and champions alike receive reliable electricity and business success. By empowering local agents through the Champion Model, Peco Power seeks to build a sustainable energy ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders.
This initiative exemplifies Peco Power’s commitment to driving positive social impact through innovative energy solutions. By collaborating closely with communities and leveraging sustainable technologies Peco Power aims to improve lives and promote inclusive growth.
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Peco Power began in the labs at Wits University’s School of Electrical and Information Engineering. At the time Professor Willie Cronje’s efforts demonstrated how innovative research could translate into socially transformative technology solutions. In 2019 Peco Power was collaboratively formed by Wits Enterprise and Social Impact Investment firm, Umbono Capital.
Peco Power’s mandate was to commercialise and industrialise their technology. Endeavouring to improve lives within Africa’s borders has since been represented by the launch of the patented state-of-the-art PowerBrickTM range in 2022. With continued support from Wits University, Peco Power can offer consumers within Africa access to safe and reliable electrification alternatives, thereby improving their quality of life and access to basic needs. Peco Power has since operated as a research and development OEM providing a high-end range of renewable-energy technology produced in South Africa.
For more information about Peco Power and its initiatives, visit www.pecopower.co.za.