Solarpro Zimbabwe – February 2025 Newsletter

More than half of Zimbabwe's SMEs are run or owned by women. Zimbabwe faces significant energy challenges, with frequent power cuts disrupting businesses and increasing operational costs. Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly those led by women, struggle to access reliable electricity, which limits their ability to grow and thrive.

Solarpro has introduced a ground breaking solar financing program designed to empower women entrepreneurs by providing affordable, sustainable energy solutions. This initiative addresses two critical issues: the high cost of energy and the lack of access to flexible financing for renewable energy solutions.

The Problems This Program Solves

1. Unreliable Power Supply Zimbabwe's national power grid is inconsistent, leading to frequent blackouts that hinder productivity. Businesses reliant on electricity often face losses due to downtime, refrigeration failures, and communication breakdowns. Solar power provides a stable and uninterrupted energy source, ensuring continuous operations.

2. High Energy Costs Electricity tariffs in Zimbabwe are expensive, making it challenging for businesses to manage their operational costs. Many entrepreneurs resort to generators, which are costly to run and maintain. The solar financing program allows women-led businesses to switch to cost-effective solar energy, reducing electricity bills by up to 80%. Utility electricity costs USD26 cents per kwh on the top end. Big companies like OK Zimbabwe spent USD8.2m in 2024 alone for example. Going solar allows you to reduce these costs.

3. Limited Access to Financing Traditional banks often require collateral and impose high interest rates on loans, making it difficult for women entrepreneurs to access funding for solar installations. Solarpro’s program offers women-exclusive interest rates and flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months, making solar solutions more accessible.

4. Environmental Sustainability Many businesses in Zimbabwe still rely on diesel generators, contributing to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. By transitioning to solar energy, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.

How the Program Works

• Customized Solar Solutions: Businesses receive tailored solar system sizing based on their energy needs.

• Low Upfront Costs: Entrepreneurs can access solar installations with minimal initial investment.

• Flexible Repayment Terms: Up to 24 months of repayment at below-market interest rates.

• Premium Equipment & Warranty: The program ensures high-quality solar panels and inverters with performance guarantees.

The Impact

This initiative is set to transform Zimbabwe’s business landscape by providing reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy solutions. Women entrepreneurs will not only benefit from lower electricity costs but also gain energy independence, boosting their businesses’ productivity and profitability.

By empowering women through access to affordable solar energy, Solarpro Zimbabwe is driving economic growth and promoting gender equality in the energy sector.

Get Started Today!

If you're a woman entrepreneur looking to cut energy costs and gain energy independence, apply today through Solarpro Zimbabwe.

Join the growing community of empowered business owners making the switch to clean, sustainable solar power.