New energy start-up wins Rolls-Royce Power Systems as investor

Kowry Energy is looking to sub-Saharan Africa to take advantage of climatic conditions there to install clean energy systems. The start-up was only founded this year, and now Rolls-Royce Power Systems is contributing a seven-figure sum for the market launch.

Berlin-based start-up Kowry Energy works with local companies to help communities in sub-Saharan Africa expand their energy infrastructure. Now Rolls-Royce Power Systems, a supplier of diesel engines based in Friedrichshafen, is investing a seven-figure sum in the start-up. This is Rolls-Royce's way of helping the company bring its energy solutions to market.

"We are excited to launch in Mali and Nigeria this year," says founder Ndiarka Mbodji. "Demand is growing and I look forward to welcoming more investors soon to support sustainable energy access in sub-Saharan Africa." In addition to the investment, the startup has more news: Former Economics and Energy Minister Brigitte Zypries will join the startup's advisory board.

Power Systems CFO Louise Öfverström also sits on the advisory board and says of her company's involvement, "Rolls-Royce as an investor and industry partner creates a strong positioning for Kowry in the market. The start-up can build on our support and expertise in the implementation of the projects."

Kowry Energy supports its customers every step of the way, from planning to implementation and procurement of energy solutions, with a focus on clean energy. The hybrid solutions offered, consisting of photovoltaic systems and battery storage, cover a demand of up to one megawatt. Mbodji worked at Rolls-Royce Power Systems herself for 15 years before announcing a month ago that she was launching Kowry Energy as founder and CEO.