Ayodeji Ayenuwa
Orange, a prominent telecommunications operator, has entered into a strategic partnership with startup Koolboks to bring solar-powered freezing and refrigeration solutions to 12 African countries.
This initiative is part of the Orange Energies program, aimed at expanding energy access in regions where 600 million Africans currently lack electricity.
In addressing this critical issue, Koolboks offers solar-powered refrigerators and freezers equipped with solar panels and batteries that can operate independently for up to three days.
These appliances also feature LED lighting and USB ports for charging electronic devices, such as mobile phones and tablets.
As part of this strategic collaboration, Orange initially launching the solar freezers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and later in the 11 other countries where Orange Energies operates.
While highlighting the importance of this partnership, Nat-Sy Missamou, Senior Vice President Africa and Middle East at Orange Energies, stated, “Since 2018, Orange Energies has been a partner for all energy producers. Alongside solar power producers, national electricity operators, and minigrid managers, we are deploying our pay-as-you-go platform, Orange Smart Energies, to make clean and affordable energy accessible to as many people as possible. This partnership marks our entry into a new phase in which our ambition, after giving access to essential services, is to allow families to take control of the development of their communities. This partnership marks the beginning of a fruitful collaboration.”
With equal enthusiasm, Ayoola Dominic, the founder and CEO of Koolboks, expressed the significance of the partnership, stating, “Koolboks is proud to partner with Orange to distribute our solar freezers. This product was designed to meet a need and allow small traders and families to store food and have light in off-grid areas. With this partnership, we will be able to offer this luxury in many countries and regions simultaneously.”
Orange Energies, currently operational in 12 countries, has plans to extend its activities to two additional nations by 2024.
This collaboration positions Orange as the first telco operator to embark on an agreement of this scale, contributing to the development of income-generating activities in rural areas through clean electrification solutions, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development objectives.
Techrectory with Agency Report.
