The funding will drive the expansion of MOPO’s battery rental operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a cornerstone of the company’s strategic growth plans in Africa.

MOPO aims to revolutionize energy access across urban and rural areas in Africa, addressing the persistent issue of unreliable or non-existent electricity grids.

The company’s offerings include two battery types: the MOPO50, designed for lighting, phone charging, and small DC appliances, and the larger MOPOMax, capable of powering 230V appliances and serving as a battery swap solution for e-motorbike taxis.

These batteries are available through solar-powered hubs managed by local agents, enabling customers to access electricity on a pay-per-use basis without the financial burden of upfront costs or consumer debt.

The new funding will allow MOPO to triple its service capacity in the DRC over the next year, targeting over one million people.

With only 17% of the DRC’s population having access to electricity, the World Bank ranks the country among the ten least electrified globally.

MOPO’s model provides an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to carbon-based fuel generation, addressing a critical need for sustainable energy solutions.

Chris Longbottom, MOPO’s CEO, emphasized the transformative potential of the funding, stating:

“Our partnership with BII aligns perfectly with our mission to provide clean, affordable energy to underserved communities. This collaboration will enable us to make a lasting impact, empowering households and small businesses without the burden of costly upfront investments.”

Since its launch in the DRC in early 2024, MOPO has established operations in six cities and achieved over 23 million battery rentals across Sub-Saharan Africa.

The DRC has emerged as a key growth market due to its vast population of over 100 million, where more than 80% lack access to electricity.

“This financing from BII is a pivotal moment for MOPO as we scale our operations and bring transformative energy solutions to millions,” Longbottom added.

Chris Chijiutomi, Managing Director and Head of Africa at BII, highlighted the significance of MOPO’s mission: “MOPO’s innovative solutions are addressing a critical energy deficit, enabling businesses and households to thrive even in remote areas. This partnership reflects BII’s commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth in Africa’s frontier markets.”

Lord Collins of Highbury, UK Minister for Africa, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the broader impact of UK investment in driving sustainable economic growth in Africa. “This partnership between BII and MOPO showcases how UK expertise can unlock opportunities for green development, creating value for businesses in the UK and Africa alike,” he said.