Strengthening communities with sustainable energy solutions that have a strong positive environmental impact.
- Notícias RESET
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
ACCESS TO ENERGY IN MOZAMBIQUE – MAIN CHALLENGES
Access to energy in Mozambique faces major challenges. Rural electrification is hampered by a lack of basic infrastructure, institutional barriers, and low purchasing power among rural families, who often rely on firewood and disposable batteries for their basic energy needs.
Limited infrastructure for sustainable energy solutions further exacerbates the situation, leaving families dependent on inefficient and environmentally damaging practices. The task of collecting firewood falls mostly to women, who represent about 92% of this workforce, spending an average of 50 minutes a day, which varies considerably depending on the region. This highlights not only gender inequalities in energy-related burdens, but also the significant amount of time this activity consumes daily.
Another growing problem in rural areas is the use of disposable batteries, indispensable for flashlights, radios, cell phones, and other basic needs. These batteries are expensive, short-lived, and difficult to recycle, posing serious environmental risks due to poor waste management and soil contamination. With the rapid expansion of mobile network coverage, recharging cell phones has become essential for daily life—and solar energy has become the only viable alternative.
JOÃO ENERGIA
A 2017 study revealed that Mozambican families are willing to pay for energy—provided it involves affordable solutions adapted to their context. Based on this, JFS-RESET launched the JOÃO ENERGIA program in 2018, providing domestic solar systems (SHS) to vulnerable communities through a zero-interest, installment-based credit model. These kits provide lighting, allow for mobile phone charging, and facilitate students' study at night. The initiative also includes technical support and sales by local agents, often women ("Eco-Warriors"), who receive incentives for their active participation, promoting female empowerment and the development of entrepreneurial skills.
IMPACT AND RESULTS
10,180 farming families are already benefiting from home solar systems provided by JFS-RESET by 2024.
1,425 farmers use ULVA solar sprayers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
34 women are working as community solar energy agents, strengthening the local economy and female leadership.
The loan repayment rate in the three-year payment model is 66%, even in challenging market contexts, which reveals the effectiveness and acceptance of the program.
Furthermore, the “Cotton for a Better Future” initiative, with the support of ABTE, implemented solar charging stations in 10 schools, benefiting 3,144 students. Each school received a solar panel and 50 power banks for students to take home, allowing them to study at night and keep their families' cell phones charged. This encouraged school attendance and access to energy in the most isolated areas.
JFS-RESET believes that solar energy is no longer just a technological tool, but a real driver of sustainable rural development and inclusion.
RESET is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study is linked to several SDGs. The SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
