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Energy Corps Partners with Mercuria to Boost Global Energy Access

In a significant step forward for energy sustainability, Energy Corps, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to affordable and reliable energy, has announced a four-year partnership with Mercuria Energy Group—a leading independent energy and commodities firm. With a commitment of $4 million, this collaboration aims to finance five innovative energy projects across various countries, including Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Panama, and Zambia.

Objectives of the Partnership

Mercuria's role in this partnership extends beyond mere financial support; the company's extensive market knowledge and operational expertise are vital in fostering the development of these energy projects. This collaboration will provide Energy Corps with stable funding to facilitate grant-making, accumulate valuable insights, and disseminate evidence that promotes the advancement of modern energy systems in diverse environments.

As described by Brian Falik, Chief Investment Officer at Mercuria, the company not only supplies energy but also delivers the capital solutions necessary for the growth of energy-dependent markets. “Through this long-term partnership, we aim to channel our expertise toward locally-led initiatives designed to extend reliable energy access and the economic opportunities it creates,” he noted.

Funding for Local Communities

The partnership's immediate focus is on five specific grants designed to tackle local energy challenges:

1. Solar-Powered Community Center in Bangladesh: An off-grid fishing community will benefit from a solar-powered facility that includes cold storage and ice-making capabilities. This project aims to decrease post-harvest losses and improve market access for local fishermen.

2. Strengthening Electrical Safety in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: As electrification expands, NRECA International will enhance safety practices among line workers tasked with building and maintaining power infrastructure, aiming to reduce workplace accidents and build local capacity.

3. Renewable Energy for Indigenous Communities in Panama: The installation of home-based photovoltaic systems will provide electricity to Indigenous households, enabling essential services like healthcare and education, as well as local agricultural processing.

4. Investment-Ready Distributed Energy Projects in Zambia: RMI will collaborate with Zambian energy partners to prepare distributed energy projects for investment, making them feasible for implementation and creating a replicable framework for future initiatives.

5. Clean Water Access in Kaude Village, Zambia: Innovation Africa will establish a solar-powered water system to supply safe drinking water to rural communities, significantly improving health outcomes and reducing waterborne diseases.

The Way Forward

According to Tisha Schuller, Head of Energy Corps, the partnership with Mercuria reflects a shared commitment to leveraging the energy sector's resources and expertise to combat energy poverty. “Our partnerships with Mercuria, alongside our grantees, are a testament to the necessity of sustained engagement and capital in expanding access to modern energy,” she explained.

Energy Corps invites various stakeholders, including energy firms, philanthropists, and policymakers, to join their efforts in creating pathways from energy poverty toward energy prosperity. Organizations interested in this initiative can explore collaboration opportunities to amplify their impact on communities in need.

For a deeper understanding of Energy Corps’ mission and their approach, visit energycorps.com.

About Energy Corps and Mercuria

Energy Corps is at the forefront of advancing global energy access, while Mercuria, founded in Geneva, operates across the energy value chain and is committed to promoting sustainable practices in the energy transition landscape. Together, they are poised to make meaningful strides in enhancing the livelihoods of communities worldwide.

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