Demonstration of solar-powered e-mobility solutions for urban transport in Nairobi, Kenya

In collaboration with a consortium of 28 partners, including 11 African-based and 17 European-based Partners, EACREEE is implementing a European Commission-funded project under Horizon 2020. The project, titled ENERGy Access and Green Transition Collaboratively Demonstrated in Urban and Rural Areas in AfrICA (ENERGICA), aims to accelerate the green transition and improve energy access in Africa.

From January 22–23, 2025, EACREEE participated in the ENERGICA Consortium meeting in Nairobi, Kenya. The meeting reviewed the progress of activities under the project

In the East African Community, the project focuses on demonstrating and replicating solar-powered electric mobility solutions for motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas) in Nairobi and Thika. By the end of 2024, over 1,300 Roam Air electric motorbikes had been deployed, covering more than 20.6 million kilometres, selling over 25 MWh of energy, and offsetting 1,100 tonnes of CO2. This initiative demonstrates a sustainable solution for urban transportation. Roam has established 10 Roam Hubs across Nairobi and plans to expand its network further in urban and peri-urban areas to create a reliable and convenient network for electric motorcycle riders. These hubs will enhance access to electric mobility, transforming urban transportation into a cleaner and more efficient system.

The project aligns with Roam’s mission to provide innovative, low-emission transport solutions. Furthermore, Roam’s commitment to an open-architecture design for its charging stations will enable compatibility among electric vehicle manufacturers, allowing riders to charge at multiple locations and addressing a key barrier to widespread adoption. Additionally, solar charging makes electric mobility more affordable, offering savings of KES 10–15 per kWh compared to traditional electricity sources. The project features other demonstration sites, each managed by local Energy Transition Boards to implement community-scale Integrated Community Energy Systems (ICESs). The chosen sites—Diana Region in Madagascar and Freetown in Sierra Leone focus on innovative technologies tailored to local needs:

            •           Diana Region, Madagascar: Development of nano-grids for renewable energy production to support water and food systems.

            •           Freetown, Sierra Leone: Deployment of a biogas and water purification system for energy, water, and fertilizer production.

            •           Nairobi and Thika, Kenya: Demonstration of solar-powered electric mobility solutions for urban and peri-urban transport.

The project represents a significant step toward sustainable energy access and the green transition in Africa.