Exploring the potential of distributed renewable energy in agriculture

Small Foundation is excited to partner with Power for All to support research on the potential impact of distributed renewable energy (DRE) in addressing agricultural inefficiencies across staple crop value chains in East Africa.  

Power for All is committed to accelerating the end of energy poverty through market expansion and deployment of DRE solutions in emerging economies. Its work drives awareness, activates local markets, and strengthens advocacy to transform how energy is used, while supporting local changemakers in energy-poor countries to build self-sufficient DRE ecosystems.  

Over the next eight months, this research will examine inefficiencies and potential DRE solutions within the teff and maize value chains in Ethiopia, and banana (matoke) and dairy value chains in Uganda. Small Foundation hopes this study will generate data and evidence identifying key systemic constraints in these sectors to inform market-oriented solutions that can enhance both the sustainability and productivity of agricultural systems.

The research will also support Power for All’s market-activation efforts and highlight the vital role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in tackling agricultural inefficiencies. Additionally, the findings will inform conversations with local financial institutions, particularly those engaged or exploring the asset finance space. 

Alba Topulli, CEO of Power for All commented: 

“Energy access is fundamental to achieving broader Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 2 on food security and nutrition. From production to processing, storage, and distribution, DRE technologies address inefficiencies, enhance productivity, and unlock economic activity for smallholder farmers and lead firms. This research focuses on identifying key constraints within fragile agricultural systems, designing policy and market-oriented solutions, and demonstrating how DRE technologies can drive rural industrialisation.”

Small Foundation looks forward to sharing insights from this research with our network and the broader ecosystem.