Energy is an essential factor for the reduction of poverty and economic growth. Major sectors like agriculture, education, communication, and technology all require abundant, consistent, and cost effective energy to spur the much needed development of the continent. Currently, many African nations already have small scale solar, wind, and geothermal plants that provide energy in rural areas. These modes of energy production are becoming very useful in remote locations, because they bridge the gap created by the excessive cost of transporting electricity from large-scale power plants. The applications of renewable energy technology has the potential to alleviate many of the problems faced, as well as help improve the lives of many in the continent. Many small scale companies and startups have ventured into provision of renewable energy in the continent. One day, Solarpowergetics plans to join and support the ranks of growing startups in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Until then, here are ten startups that are utilizing the vast amount of the continent’s renewable energy potential