In these testing times, it will require a coordinated effort to ensure energy services continue to reach the low-income consumers who need it most.

SF partner Energy Private Developers (EPD), who we have supported since 2016 with co-funding from the UK Government and USAID, to address local market barriers to energy access in Rwanda, have been active since the Covid-19 pandemic forced the country into lockdown.

They have successfully advocated for the Rwandan government to recognise off-grid energy providers as essential service providers, which allows the providers to run a service (with restricted employee numbers, limited transport and controlled interactions) and continue to provide energy solutions to Rwandans.

As the world adapts to the new working conditions brought on by Covid-19, it is encouraging to see how market institutions are helping to coordinate entire sectors and stimulate policy that allows off-grid energy providers to continue operating.