History
While working in Namibia for the WWF, Doug Vilsack noticed a severe gap in the energy access in Katima Mulilo, a small region in the North of the country. Farmers needed lights to protect their fields from elephants who would destroy their crop at night. He reached out to friends and family to raise funds for the first round of solar lights to be distributed in Namibia. Since then, Elephant Energy, has spread to 8 regions and adopted a social enterprise model, selling lights, and generating income throughout the rural the North of the country.
Mission and Vision
Established in 2008, Elephant Energy’s mission is to improve the quality of life in developing communities by pioneering ventures that provide access to appropriate sustainable energy technologies.
Where They Work
Namibia is the second most sparsely populated country in the world. It’s low population density combined with high import tariffs makes it an extremely challenging country in which to do business. It is a country often forgotten about by traditional non-profits and social enterprises. Yet more than 1 million people lack access to electricity in Namibia and 60% of the country’s electricity comes from imported fossil fuels.
Elephant Energy works in 8 Regions across Namibia, Khomas, Kavango, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, Oshana, Zambezi, delivering products to the most rural areas.