In a move to boost energy access and financial inclusion, the Global Off-Grid Lighting Association (GOGLA) and the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) have announced a strategic partnership to promote off-grid solar adoption in under-served regions, particularly Africa.

The partnership aims to realise the e-MFP’s plans to expand access to productive assets and services beyond core financial products such as renewable energy. GOGLA also recognises that the off-grid solar industry needs greater collaboration with financial service providers to support the adoption of this technology and move beyond pay-as-you-go financial models.

The organisations will also promote and participate in the 2024 Global Off-Grid Solar Forum and Expo in Nairobi, Kenya, from October 8-10. The event is expected to gather climate investors, development partners and companies across the distributed renewable energy industry to create a space for unlocking new and innovative partnerships that will help drive universal electricity access and build climate resilience.

“We welcome this opportunity to expand the ways the off-grid solar industry is creating financial inclusion for its customers. This partnership with e-MFP will strengthen our work to increase access to clean energy, improve lives, energise economies and build climate resilience for hard-to-reach and under-served populations,” said Sarah Malm, Executive Director of GOGLA.