Bitesize Energy Portable Productive Power for Enhanced Energy Access and Productivity

Partners: Challenges Catalyst

Country: Malawi

Technology: Energy storage including batteries and mechanical storage

Stage: Mid

Stage: Round 10

Despite its potential, Malawi’s mini-grid market remains in its infancy, facing barriers to realising full impact. Building upon existing hardware and software developed by CREATIVenergie during Energy Catalyst Round 7, this project aims to increase access to reliable and affordable energy in rural Malawi by integrating portable productive applications into a rental model with pay-per-use battery swapping. This pilot builds on existing hardware and software developed by CREATIVenergie and generates local data on Average Revenue per User (ARPU) and Average Weekly Time of Power (AWTP) to support accurate load projection and de-risk mini-grid investments.

The project will use a two-tier ‘franchisor-franchisee’ model in partnership with local mini-grid developers and will target communities where mini-grids are the preferred electrification option and recruit and train local franchisees.
It will also include hardware and software development, demonstrator implementation, commercial implementation, mini-grid developer and government engagement, franchise model development, and business and financial planning.