The company will take over this project from the EDP Group, strengthening its dedication to the promotion of sustainability and development on a global scale.
Today, one in six people live without access to electricity. Through A2E (Access to Energy), EDPR hopes to grow the renewable energy sector in developing countries, where sustainable energy can have a significant positive impact on families and communities.
The EDP Group launched the A2E program in 2009, with the first project carried out at the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya. This initiative was a joint effort between EDP and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). It implemented energy efficiency strategies and solar power for heating, lighting and water purification and pumping, improving the quality of life of thousands of refugees.
In the nine years since then, A2E projects have benefitted over 20,000 people. They provide renewable power to remote regions around the globe, usually in the form of solar energy. In addition, the program promotes community engagement in order to foster social, economic and environmental development and break the cycle of poverty.
A2E projects have already been implemented in Kenya, Angola, Brazil, Guinea-Bissau and Benin. In São Tomé and Principe, Myanmar Peru, Mexico, Mozambique, Timor and Venezuela were carried out consulting and concept development projects.
Moving forward, EDPR will operate in two main areas: investment in existing A2E companies and Corporate Social Responsibility. The company has set an ambitious 3-year goal of €12 million invested, 200,000 people impacted and €1 million contributed to a philanthropic fund.
Access to renewable energy can make a huge difference for people living off the electricity grid. EDPR recognizes this, and is strongly committed to doing whatever possible to bring vital energy resources to those who need them most. The A2E program is the next step forward in making EDPR’s vision of a sustainable, safe and healthy world a reality.