In Africa, access to electricity remains a major challenge, significantly hindering economic and social development. The initiatives by Orange and its partners are contributing to addressing this challenge in a sustainable manner.
Orange Smart Energies, a specialized digital platform by the telecom operator Orange, is now open to all energy producers in Africa. This pay-as-you-go solution, combined with Orange Money, allows them to manage the prepaid electricity provided to populations through their solar kits and smart meters. This initiative will significantly enhance energy inclusion in Africa.
"Using digital technology to improve the energy inclusion of African people has been our ambition since day one. By opening up our Orange Smart Energies platform to all energy producers, we are taking a major step forward in our commitment to universal access to energy in Africa and the Middle East," said Jérôme Hénique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA).
In its "Electricity 2024: Analysis and Forecast to 2026" report, the International Energy Agency (IEA) indicated that 600 million people, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa, lacked access to electricity in 2023, accounting for over 40% of Africa's population. Off-grid gasoline or diesel generators have become a common solution for accessing electricity on the continent due to their low initial costs compared to grid connection. However, their operating costs have significantly increased, particularly since 2021, following the surge in oil prices.
On the other hand, since 2015, the adoption of modular decentralized home solar systems (SHS) has steadily increased, according to the IEA. "Countries like Ghana and Kenya have multiplied their SHS capacity more than twentyfold between 2015 and 2019. SHS providers have enabled the implementation of the system through financial incentives such as a pay-as-you-go business model," notes the International Energy Agency.
Given this context, the Orange Smart Energies platform — operational in 12 African countries with over 300,000 households benefiting from its services daily — positions itself as a valuable asset for the French telecom operator in the fight against energy poverty in Africa. In addition to facilitating access to energy for remote populations, it also addresses the profitability challenges of energy producers by reducing the risk of non-payment.
Orange wants to connect one million households to solar energy by 2026. Furthermore, the company covers a dual advantage. The connection between Orange Smart Energies and Orange Money allows it to further monetize its mobile finance service, while also promoting internet usage, a strong revenue segment for Orange, through increased access to electricity.
