Schneider Electric’s Olivier Jacquet on how to improve access to power in East Africa

As the Global Off-Grid Solar Forum & Expo 2020 kicks off in Nairobi, Kenya, the spotlight is on the importance of sustainable off-grid solutions for developing countries, particularly in East Africa. Olivier Jacquet, the VP of Access to Energy at Schneider Electric, highlighted the critical need for improved access to electricity in the region during an interview with CNBC Africa. Jacquet emphasized that roughly half of the African population lacks access to electricity through traditional means, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable solutions to bridge this gap. He noted that the lack of access to energy not only hampers economic development but also impacts basic necessities such as water, health, safety, and gender equality. At Schneider Electric, the mission is to make access to energy a fundamental human right by providing clean, safe, and efficient energy sources for all. Jacquet discussed the progress being made in countries like Kenya, where the adoption of small-scale solar systems has helped bring electricity to remote areas. These systems, ranging from solar lanterns to home systems, have empowered communities by providing essential services like lighting, radio, fans, and even appliances like TVs and refrigerators in some cases. Jacquet commended Kenya for its leadership in this space and highlighted the profitability of the off-grid energy sector, which is driving sustainable development in the region. He also mentioned the growing momentum in other countries across Africa, the Middle East, and South America, signaling a positive shift towards wider energy access. The interview concluded with a promise to keep track of the ongoing forum in Nairobi, where industry experts and stakeholders are convening to discuss innovative solutions and collaborations to advance energy access in East Africa.