Power gen

About Power gen

PowerGen Renewable Energy, founded in 2011, is a key player in developing distributed renewable energy across Africa. The company was established with the goal of building an impactful business at the intersection of renewable technology growth and Africa's economic development. Aaron Cheng is a co-founder and currently serves as the company's President and CEO. Sam Slaughter is also a co-founder and the former CEO.

The company's core business is the development, construction, and operation of solar-powered mini-grids to provide clean, reliable, and affordable electricity to off-grid and underserved communities. Its clients include households, micro-businesses, and commercial and industrial customers in several African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. The business model functions like a private utility, managing the mini-grids and providing ongoing customer support on a pay-as-you-go basis. This approach displaces the use of diesel generators and kerosene, contributing to both economic development and a cleaner energy system.

PowerGen's primary service is delivering 24/7 AC power through smart, clean micro-grids. These systems are more than just power generation; they represent a data-driven, software-based approach to energy, incorporating smart metering, intelligent tariffs, and real-time analytics to ensure operational excellence. The company has expanded its services to include productive use programs such as support for e-mobility, electric cooking, and cold storage to enhance the quality of life for its customers. A significant milestone was the acquisition of Rafiki Power from E.On in 2019, which combined two leading micro-grid operators and expanded PowerGen's assets, project pipeline, and software IP. The company has secured substantial funding through multiple rounds, including a Series B in 2019 and a Series C in 2025, from a diverse group of investors like Shell's New Energies, Omidyar Network, and the African Development Bank, aiming to connect over a million people in the coming years.