End-to-End Solar Borehole Business Models and Data Collection to Extend Sustainable Access to Energy and Water in Rural Tanzania

Partners: Smart Villages Research Group

Country: Tanzania

Technology: Diesel and petrol generator replacements

Stage: Mid

Stage: Round 10

Smart Villages Research Group (SVRG) and OMASI collaborated on an Energy Catalyst Round 9 project in Tanzania developing technology to encourage community repayments for solar borehole power systems. This project will continue the development of a system that utilises pay-as-you-go technology, cutting off power for non-payment, with diesel generators ensuring continuous water access. Previous research and initial community engagement revealed water as the highest priority. The technology, tested as part of Energy Catalyst Round 9 support not only facilitates borehole repayments but could extend to financing new borehole drilling, marking a shift to private sector involvement. Immediate impact includes completing operational boreholes in communities lacking funds for generators or pumps, enabling rapid repayment.