Ampersand, an e-mobility startup, has joined forces with CrossBoundary Energy to roll out solar-powered charging stations for its electric two-wheeler (E2W) motorbikes in Kenya, with the goal of enhancing the accessibility of eco-friendly charging options. This initiative is set to propel the rapid expansion of Ampersand’s electric motorcycle fleet throughout East Africa.
Established in 2016, Ampersand has been at the forefront of assembling and financing electric motorcycles that offer a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional petrol-powered bikes. In East Africa, where over five million petrol motorcycles are in use, Ampersand’s electric models offer a promising solution for reducing both costs and environmental impact.
Since its commercial launch in May 2019, Ampersand has successfully expanded its fleet to over 3,400 electric motorcycles and is on track to surpass the 10,000 mark by the end of 2024. The strategic alliance with CrossBoundary Energy is set to deliver renewable energy for charging at reduced rates, thereby bolstering Ampersand’s efforts to scale up sustainably.
Ampersand will oversee the maintenance of batteries and the operation of its charging stations. Meanwhile, CrossBoundary Energy will initiate a pilot project, financing and owning the charging infrastructure and batteries at one of Ampersand’s battery swap stations in Nairobi.
The pilot will include 36 electric charging units and 150 lithium-ion batteries, all powered by a 37kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system, ensuring that Ampersand’s electric motorbikes are charged with affordable and clean solar energy, further diminishing the carbon footprint in the region.
CrossBoundary Energy, with its proficiency in providing distributed renewable energy solutions, views this collaboration as a strategic entry into the e-mobility market.
Tombo Banda, Managing Director and Head of CrossBoundary’s Innovation Lab, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting it as a milestone for CrossBoundary Energy’s venture into the e-mobility sector. The partnership is seen as a catalyst for attracting private investment and fostering growth. Banda also noted the significance of partnering with Ampersand, a company with a solid track record and ambitious vision for East Africa, as a means to significantly support their scaling endeavors.
