Problem & Solution - Approximately 1 billion people globally lack access to electricity, primarily in Africa and South/Southeast Asia [1] - Mesh grids, a decentralized network with panels and batteries on individual houses, offer a solution by interconnecting houses and redistributing power [6][7] - Mesh grids can be 50% cheaper than mini-grids due to shorter power distances and smaller cables [8] Innovation & Deployment - Nigeria is a progressive and innovative leader in large-scale solutions to energy poverty [2] - Mesh grids are fast to deploy, with local labor trained for installation and maintenance [9] - Prototypes were tested in communities, demonstrating the technology's potential to fill the energy access gap [10] Policy & Finance - Nigeria's regulators are actively learning about and supporting new energy solutions like mesh grids [13] - Financeers like Infrorit are backing mesh grid innovations, alongside partnerships to provide appropriate appliances [15] - DARES, a nearly $1 billion electrification program, aims to provide electricity to almost 20 million Nigerians, including mesh grids [16] Impact & Future - Currently, 40,000 people have gained electricity access through mesh grids [17] - 500,000 people are projected to gain access to electricity from mesh grids in the next few years [18] - The industry believes that 700 million people can gain electricity access with innovation and a willingness to adopt new approaches [19]