Owangasolar

Owangasolar is a Congolese startup addressing the critical need for reliable electricity in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The company focuses on providing accessible and affordable energy solutions to individuals and businesses in a market characterized by one of the world's lowest electrification rates. Owangasolar distinguishes itself by designing products specifically for the local market, rather than simply reselling items that may not be certified or durable.

The core of Owangasolar's offering is a portable, modular, and stackable battery pack system, branded as the "Chisun". This product is engineered using second-life LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries, a decision that helps to reduce electronic waste and promote environmental sustainability. The battery packs have a capacity of 180,000mAh, a peak output of 300W, and can power common appliances such as lights, televisions, and laptops. A key feature is the rapid charging technology, which allows the battery to be fully charged in under 30 minutes. The modular design is a significant advantage, enabling customers to stack multiple units to increase power capacity based on their needs.

Owangasolar employs a flexible business model to cater to different customer segments. The company sells its portable battery packs directly to consumers and distributors, with a purchase price around $250-$300. Recognizing the need for affordability, it also offers a rental or Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) option, allowing users to access the battery pack for a daily fee of approximately $2. This dual approach of direct sales and a rental/leasing model targets a broad customer base, from individual households to small businesses, in a region with immense potential for off-grid solar solutions.

Keywords: portable energy, battery storage, Democratic Republic of Congo, off-grid solar, Pay-As-You-Go, sustainable energy, rural electrification, modular battery, second-life batteries, energy access