Member Highlight: Sandra Chukwudozie Secures 1.3M Dollars to Expand Solar Access Across Africa

Sandra Chukwudozie, Founder and CEO of Salpha Energy, a female-led Nigerian startup that is breaking new ground in the clean energy sector. 

On Friday, the 13th of June, Salpha Energy secured $1.3 million in funding from Shell-backed All On, a catalytic investment that will support the company’s mission to expand affordable solar power solutions across the continent. 

With over 2 million lives already impacted, this funding marks a powerful step forward in closing Africa’s energy access gap.

Founded in 2017, Salpha Energy set out to bridge Nigeria’s energy gap using solar power.

With an innovative line of solar home systems, lanterns, and mini-grid solutions, the company is bringing sustainable electricity to off-grid rural communities, many of which had never experienced reliable light before but Salpha’s mission goes beyond just access. Their pay-as-you-go (PAYG) model allows low-income families to afford solar products in small, manageable installments. With partnerships across Africa, including support from institutions like the World Bank, Power Africa, and All On (an impact investing firm backed by Shell), Salpha has expanded its reach, impacting over 200,000 lives to date.

The company is also intentional about inclusivity, with women making up 40% of their sales force many of whom are trained as energy entrepreneurs within their communities.

Sandra is a vocal advocate for climate action, gender equity, and economic empowerment. She has been recognized by various global platforms, including Forbes and The Africa Report, for her work in building a sustainable and inclusive business model.

In interviews and panels, she often emphasizes that renewable energy is not just about the environment, but also about education, healthcare, and economic resilience.

Sandra was featured by “Afro Tech”, a platform focused on building community and opportunities for black professionals in the tech industry. 

We are proud to celebrate Sandra and her team and to amplify stories like hers that are lighting the path for Africa’s future.