Universal Basic Utility Access: Insights and Challenges from a For-Profit Model


Bruno and Robert will speak on the concept of providing universal basic utility access (UBUA) for all through a for-profit business model as embodied by RVE.SOL. They will discuss the general premise of UBUA and its potential to radically improve the livelihoods of communities around the globe. Next, they will comment on insights acquired over 6 years of on-the-ground experience at RVE.SOL's pilot mini-grid (MG) project - operating in the Sidonge Community of Western Kenya - as a practical example of a business model striving to provide UBUA. In addition, they will discuss the challenges facing a socially inclusive business model in the emerging energy sector of MGs, both from a technological and operations perspective. Lastly, they will explore why capital investment has been slow to mobilize for the sector and suggest ways to close the gap between financiers and MG developers.

Speakers

Bruno Lopes, RVE.SOL, Microgrid Expert
Bruno Lopes
Director of Technology
RVE.SOL

With a technical background in power engineering and renewable technologies, Bruno focuses on the design and development of smart mini-grids at RVE.SOL. Bruno is a self-motivated problem solver, passionate about the potential for renewable energy technology to improve global social welfare and protect the environment. He recently completed a Masters in Electrical Power Engineering from the Institute Polytechnic of Leiria (IPL), Portugal, with his Thesis on "Smart Minigrids for Sub-Saharan Africa".

Robert Cunningham, RVE.SOL, Microgrid Expert
Robert Cunningham
Director of Operations
RVE.SOL

With a degree in Physics from UCLA, Robert has embarked on a career in Asia and Africa as a teacher and an entrepreneur. Having successfully launched and scaled two start-ups in sub-Saharan Africa, Robert joined RVE.SOL to drive its expansion from pilot to powerhouse. He has diverse professional and sector experience, with a strong background in logistics, operations, sales, and procurement. He is passionate about integrating business and technology to leave behind a lasting, positive impact on the world.