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Project 
​Overview

COUNTRY: Tanzania
LOCATION: Lake Victoria Region
INDUSTRY FOCUS: Renewable Energy, Agricultural Technology

Photons Energy's Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems project aims to provide sustainable irrigation solutions to farmers in the Lake Victoria region of Tanzania. The initiative focuses on implementing solar-powered irrigation systems to enhance agricultural productivity while promoting sustainable farming practices. This project serves a critical role in a country where only 38% of the population has access to electricity, with rural access at just 19%.

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Problem Statement

Tanzania faces significant agricultural challenges due to water scarcity and unreliable rainfall patterns, which severely impact crop cultivation. Traditional irrigation methods heavily rely on fossil fuels, resulting in high operational costs for farmers. This situation is particularly critical in the Lake Victoria region, where approximately 21 million Tanzanians depend on the lake for economic support. The combination of limited electricity access and dependence on expensive fossil fuels has led to food insecurity and reduced agricultural yields among smallholder farmers.

Solution

The project implements sustainable solar-powered irrigation systems through a comprehensive approach. The solution includes scalable and reliable irrigation infrastructure, utilizing a shared CAPEX model through cooperative farming to make the systems more affordable. The program incorporates capacity building to enable farmers to maintain and optimize system usage. This innovative approach not only provides a sustainable water supply but also reduces CO2 emissions through clean energy adoption. The solution is designed to achieve widespread adoption through farmer education and practical implementation.

Project Stages

With 10 years of experience in solar energy, Photons Energy has already solarized over 100 farmers across Tanzania. The project is currently in an expansion phase, targeting 1,000 farmers annually for the next five years, which would increase their market share by 3.4MWp of PV System per year. They have established strategic partnerships with CRDB Bank and leading solar manufacturers, and opened new market presence in Somalia through collaboration with Hayle Barise Energy Solutions.

Impact

The project delivers multiple benefits including reduced operational costs for farmers, increased agricultural productivity, and improved food security in the region. Environmental impacts include significant reduction in CO2 emissions and promotion of sustainable farming practices. The initiative also contributes to economic development by making farming more profitable and sustainable for local communities. The project has particular significance for the Lake Victoria region, where 90% of the population is rural and dependent on agriculture.

Stakeholders

Key Partners:

  • CRDB Bank (Strategic financing partner)

  • BYD and Trina Solar (Equipment suppliers)

  • TAHA (Tanzania Horticultural Association)

  • Clouds Media Group

  • Local farming communities

Funding

Total Investment Needed: USD 2 million

Funding Allocation:

  • Stock Purchase

  • Project Team Expansion

  • Business Development Activities

Financial Projections:

  • 5-Year Revenue Target: USD 6 million annually

  • Expected Profit Margin: 30-35%

Current Partnerships:

  • CRDB Bank MOU: 5-year agreement offering up to 100% project financing

  • Credit line facilities with BYD and Trina Solar

  • Strategic media partnership with Clouds Media Group

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