• Emirati and UK firms sign MoU to target commercial and industrial clients
• Partnership focuses on distributed solar and wind systems
• South Africa named as first market, with expansion planned

UAE-based renewable energy developer Masdar and Britain’s Octopus Energy said yesterday they have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop clean energy solutions in Africa, with an initial focus on commercial and industrial customers.

The partnership aims to deploy local grids and distributed energy systems, drawing on Africa’s solar and wind potential to address constraints that limit reliable power supply for businesses. The two companies cited underinvestment in power networks, limited system flexibility, and difficulties integrating decentralized generation as major obstacles to industrial productivity across the continent.

South Africa was identified as the first country for implementation, with a potential rollout to other African markets at a later stage.

“Masdar and Octopus Energy share a commitment to overcoming challenges, expanding access to renewable energy, and powering progress across the globe. Through these agreements, we continue to reimagine the potential of renewables in the AI era, while also bringing much-needed clean energy to communities and businesses across Africa. We look forward to extending our partnership with Octopus Energy and transforming the energy market in the UK and in Africa,” said Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Masdar’s chief executive.

The agreement comes as Masdar is already active in Africa through large-scale, grid-connected solar projects, including a recently announced 150 MW project in Angola. The company has also signed framework agreements with international partners, such as TotalEnergies, to support access to low-carbon electricity across the continent.

Octopus Energy, for its part, launched a $60 million fund in 2024 dedicated to clean energy in sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on decentralized solar, energy storage, and grid upgrades, reflecting an established strategy in the region.

At this stage, the memorandum does not represent a binding investment commitment but sets out a cooperation framework between two companies already present in Africa and seeking to expand their footprint.

Abdoullah Diop