WHAT IS THE MESH-GRID PROJECT?
Mesh-grids have been approved for DARES – the world’s largest energy access grant financing program! This groundbreaking initiative empowers energy developers to deploy last-mile energy projects in regions where traditional solutions just aren’t viable. It stands as the leading provider of mesh-grid technology, offering a dynamic and flexible way to energize communities. Designed to unlock a multi-technology vision for off-grid electrification, the project harnesses innovative digital monitoring and modular designs. With capabilities to energize entire communities—even those spread over sparse regions—the mesh-grid approach bridges the gap between energy needs and accessibility… truly a new era in rural energy access.
MAIN BENEFITS AND KEY FIGURES
The project boasts significant achievements and breakthrough statistics that highlight its benefits:
- 40,000+ People Energized
- 120+ Communities Reached
- 10+ Energy Access Partners Involved
- More than 80% of unenergized people live in sparse areas – ideal for mesh-grids!
- Access to $750M grants through the DARES program for mesh-grid developers
This bullet list of figures reflects not only the scale but also the impact and potential profitability even in communities with less than 1,000 households.
FLEXIBLE ENERGY ACCESS: THE HUB & SPOKE MODEL
Mesh-grids are engineered with flexibility in mind. They’re designed to energize entire communities through a hub and spoke model that adjusts to varied configurations. There’s the option to act as an extension of an anchor load system while also energizing sparse, standalone households. By continuously learning from customer deployments, the configurations evolve to meet diverse project requirements. This adaptable approach means that even when energy needs fluctuate, the mesh-grid can be fine-tuned. It’s a model that showcases practicality and nimbleness in addressing community-specific requirements, ensuring that energy reaches every corner, no matter how dispersed.
OKRA MESH-GRIDS: A COMPLETE SOLUTION
Okra Mesh-Grids offer a complete solution for energy access companies aiming to bring power to off-grid households, regardless of whether their consumption is low or high. Combining the best parts of mini-grids and standalone home systems, these mesh-grids deliver reliable, productive energy that’s fast to deploy. Fast deployment is a major benefit—there is no need for land acquisition for a solar array. In addition, safe extra low voltage DC distribution (<60V DC) eliminates the need for cumbersome NERC, NEMSA, or ESMP approvals. This streamlined process ensures that energy can be delivered quickly and efficiently to even the most remote areas.
SMART AND SCALABLE TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION
The technology behind these mesh-grids is as innovative as it is scalable. With IoT-enabled devices, high-resolution data is sent securely to the cloud for continuous monitoring. The system is designed with scalability in mind—the household capacity can be easily upgraded over time. A low cost per connection means that more communities can be energized using the same level of funding. The mesh-grids provide high power output, with every household having access to AC power up to 3.6kW each. This combination of smart data management and the ability to scale capacity enhances the overall impact of rural electrification by making energy distribution both efficient and future-proof.
ADVANCING OFF-GRID ELECTRIFICATION
At its core, this project is about delivering energy to regions that would otherwise remain in the dark. It not only caters to all energy needs within a community but also adapts to different configurations as needed. Whether energizing an entire community or targeting specific, isolated households, the design encourages a tailored approach. The innovation extends beyond mere power delivery—with a mix of analog wisdom and cutting-edge digital technology, the project demonstrates that even the most challenging energy access barriers can be overcome with smart solutions. There’s always that sense of momentum… as this next-generation grid continues to evolve, so do the possibilities for energy independence.
PROJECT IMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The mesh-grid project is closely aligned with several key Sustainable Development Goals, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future:
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 1: No Poverty (by enabling economic activity through reliable energy access)
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
Each of these goals reflects the broader impact of the initiative—ensuring energy security, supporting economic development, and contributing to sustainable, community-focused progress.
EMPOWERING RURAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH DIGITAL INNOVATION
Okra uses AI and automation to enable utility companies to energize rural off-grid communities with smart mesh-grids. Okra’s advanced digital monitoring, billing, and mesh-grid technology are on a mission to energize the 800 million people who currently live off-grid. By making rural electrification more affordable and bankable through modular, upgradeable designs, the technology ensures longevity and adaptability over time. The Okra Pod, offering 1.2kW of productive solar energy, opens the door for households to participate in the digital economy. In August 2021, Okra Solar was listed as one of Forbes Asia 100 to watch—an accolade that recognizes the dynamic blend of innovation and practicality. This smart, agile approach to energy access demonstrates that even the smallest breakthrough can spark transformative change across entire communities.
