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Inside Capital Backs RDG Africa to Accelerate Clean Energy Access in Zambia & DRC

Inside Capital Partners, a prominent private equity group operating across southeastern Africa, has injected fresh capital into RDG Africa, a solar home systems and clean-energy firm active in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Rushil Patel, Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Inside Capital, voiced his enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that it comes at a crucial time in RDG’s progression.

He highlighted that the funding will enable the company to diversify its product lineup, extend its reach across the region, and deliver innovative energy solutions to underserved, off-grid communities, populations often excluded from traditional financial systems.

Patel emphasized that this is more than just an investment; it’s a move to address urgent needs, generate sustainable value, and contribute to climate resilience. 

RDG’s founder and CEO, Rune Gunnar Dige, expressed pride in teaming up with Inside Capital, pointing out that the investment will give momentum to the company’s expansion by bolstering investments in people and technological capabilities.

He noted that the additional resources will enhance both RDG’s product and service offerings, ultimately empowering thousands of individuals across their operational territories with clean-power solutions.

Founded in 2018, RDG—also known as RDG Collective or RDG Africa—is dedicated to delivering renewable energy products—such as solar home systems (SHS), refrigerators, water pumps, and portable power stations—to underserved areas via pay‑as‑you‑go (PAYGo) financing.

This model has been indispensable in breaking down the barriers to access for low-income, off-grid households. 

Operating in Zambia—and now extending into the DRC—RDG has scaled rapidly.
The company has grown its customer base from under 2,000 in 2020 to more than 30,000 by early 2025.

It has expanded coverage from two provinces to all eight provinces in Zambia, and has begun entering the DRC market. 

Inside Capital’s recent investment marks a pivotal chapter in RDG’s journey. 

While the company has already achieved remarkable growth, its expansion into the DRC opens a new frontier in a market facing widespread electrification challenges. 

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