MOPO, a UK-based technology firm specializing in sustainable energy solutions through pay-per-use battery rentals, has successfully secured funding from British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor. This investment will significantly accelerate the growth of MOPO’s battery rental operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a vital market in the company’s expansion strategy. The initiative aims to transform access to sustainable energy for millions of households and businesses across both urban and rural areas in Africa, particularly for those grappling with unreliable or nonexistent grid infrastructure.
MOPO provides two distinct types of battery rentals: the compact MOPO50, which is perfect for lighting, phone charging, and powering small DC appliances, and the larger MOPOMax, designed to support larger 230V appliances, effectively replacing petrol generators or serving as a battery swap solution for e-motorbike taxis. Customers can rent, return, and exchange these batteries on a pay-per-use basis at MOPO’s solar-powered hubs, managed by local agents. This model allows families and small businesses to access affordable electricity without the burden of significant upfront costs or the risk of consumer debt. Additionally, it offers a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative to traditional carbon-based fuel generation.
Chris Longbottom, CEO of MOPO, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with BII, stating;
We are thrilled to partner with BII, which recognizes the importance of our innovative pay-per-use battery rental model. At MOPO, our mission is to develop a high-impact, sustainable solution that empowers households and small businesses by providing access to electricity without the financial strain of expensive equipment purchases. This partnership aligns seamlessly with BII’s goal to finance initiatives that promote social and economic development. Together, we aspire to make clean, affordable energy accessible to those who need it most, fostering growth within the communities we serve.
Since launching operations in the DRC in the second quarter of 2024, MOPO has already established a presence in six cities. The funding obtained from BII’s Climate Innovation Facility is expected to enable MOPO to triple its service capacity in the DRC within the next year, with the goal of reaching over one million people.
This expansion is particularly crucial, given that less than 17% of the DRC’s population currently has access to electricity. The World Bank ranks the DRC among the ten least electrified countries in the world, highlighting the significant demand for MOPO’s innovative energy solutions.
Longbottom further noted;
We recently achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing 23 million rentals across Sub-Saharan Africa, with the DRC emerging as one of our key growth markets. With a population exceeding 100 million and over 80% lacking access to electricity, the need for our services in this country is both compelling and substantial. This financing from BII marks the beginning of what we envision as a long-term partnership, enabling us to accelerate our ambitious growth strategy in the DRC and make a transformative impact on the lives of millions by delivering reliable and affordable energy solutions.
Chris Chijiutomi, Managing Director and Head of Africa at BII, emphasized the importance of MOPO’s mission:
Imagine a battery that can power everything from phones to refrigerators, lights, and larger appliances, enabling businesses in even the most remote locations to thrive when electricity supply is unreliable or nonexistent. Supporting energy access is a key priority for BII to drive sustainable economic growth, particularly in Africa’s frontier markets, including the DRC. By backing innovative companies like MOPO, we aim to foster early-stage solutions to address significant energy deficits across the continent. We look forward to supporting MOPO as it implements its expansion plans and makes energy access a reality for more Africans.
Lord Collins of Highbury, UK Minister for Africa, echoed these sentiments, stating;
This innovative partnership between British International Investment and MOPO exemplifies how UK expertise and investment can unlock sustainable economic growth in Africa. By providing reliable, clean energy solutions to households and businesses, we are promoting green development while creating opportunities for both UK and African businesses. This initiative is part of the UK’s approach to collaborating with African partners to combat climate change and enhance economic prosperity through smart, sustainable technologies.
