The energy transition isn’t just about producing renewable energy. It’s also about making it available at the right time and place. Back in 2016, betteries’ founder Rainer Hoenig recognized the need to address energy poverty in regions with limited access to reliable, affordable energy. At the same time, he recognized the emerging waste stream of used EV batteries. In 2018, the launch of betteries AMPS GmbH was a response to both of these issues.
The Go Green Energy Project
Project Background
In November 2021, betteries participated in the first International SOS Children’s Villages Pitch Event called “Match me if you can.” betteries presented its mobile and modular renewable energy solutions to SOS Children’s Villages teams from 26 African countries. The betteries team was matched with the amazing team from SOS Children’s Villages Zambia and together they developed the idea for the Go Green Energy Project.
This is an energy project for the Mabwa community in the Kazungula District of Southern Zambia that brings affordable and mobile renewable energy to the rural community. The cost-effective system provides farmers with additional water sources and increases agricultural production for farming families in Mabwa. Rain-fed agriculture is becoming increasingly important in the face of climate-induced dry spells. Children are often the main victims. For SOS Children’s village, climate protection is also child protection. betteries supports this approach with its mobile and sustainable energy systems.
Achievements so far
In early August this year, betteries installed an energy hub in Mabwa. The community is now able to provide battery and phone charging services through a solar-powered charging station, electricity on demand through a mobile green energy generator, and transportation services through an electric Tuk-Tuk. The pay-as-you-go approach ensures the sustainability of the systems and is expected to improve the livelihoods of 250 households.
Clean drinking water with clean power
In previous years, a water tank and pump were installed in Mabwa to provide drinking water to 30 families. With the new PV charging station, mobile energy systems can now be charged with self-generated electricity, significantly increasing pumping hours and water capacity. As a result, 250 families now have access to drinking water.
Supply of tuk-tuk and school laptops
In a next step, the solar-powered charging station will also power the tuk-tuk, which can travel up to 70 km, providing a much-needed sustainable transportation solution for the village community. Finally, 15 laptops for the school’s ICT labs will be powered by green energy at a later date.
A second project in Malawi, Lilongwe, is currently being implemented on a larger scale using the same solutions.
How you can support
You would like to support the Mabwa community or other communities in Zambia? Or you would like to plan an energy project with us?
Donate your desired amount via SOS Children’s Villages.
We are also continuously looking for new collaboration opportunities.
Get in touch at info@betteries.com or call us at +40 30 7543 87440 and let’s exchange ideas how we can help!
Additional Information
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