Africa’s ‘first’ C&I solar funds get US$6 million from OPIC

November 27, 2018
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email
The finance will be used for six projects totalling 5.75MW. Credit: IBC Solar.

The US government's Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) has provided US$6 million of debt for a commercial and industrial scale solar fund.

CrossBoundary Energy provides zero upfront solar for businesses in Africa who then sign long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with it. The funds will be used for six projects with a total capacity of 5.75MW. So far it has a pipeline of completed or contracted assets of 28.8MW, all in Sub-Saharan Africa.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

“A lack of reliable and affordable power is holding back private sector-led development in manufacturing and other large industries in Africa,” said Matthew Tilleard, co-managing partner, CrossBoundary Group. “This commitment from OPIC provides us with additional, affordable financing that in turn allows companies across Sub-Saharan Africa to benefit from affordable solar that delivers energy savings, business growth and a lower carbon footprint.”

In a recent blog for PV Tech, solar consultant Dr Thomas Hillig revealed his firm's top C&I projects in Africa across the most attractive off-taker verticals.

“By offering PPAs, CrossBoundary Energy takes complete responsibility for project financing, delivery, and management of technical risk of the solar project,” said Jake Cusack, co-managing partner of the CrossBoundary Group. “During the contract term, we can also provide storage, energy efficiency, and electricity generation upgrades for our clients, ensuring businesses maintain fully-optimized energy systems to fuel their long-term growth.”

Read Next

March 27, 2026
Axpo will supply 83GWh of solar to McDonald’s under a 10-year PPA, while EDP adds 90MW with two Navarra PV plants.
March 26, 2026
French independent power producer Qair has signed a power purchase agreement with Brazilian LPG distributor Ultragaz for the Bom Jardim solar PV project.
March 26, 2026
More than 70% of global solar manufacturing facilities exhibited “major” or “critical” defects in 2025, according to a new report from Intertek CEA.
March 26, 2026
Global investment firm Brookfield Asset Management has acquired Canadian independent power producer (IPP) Boralex for C$9 billion (US$6.5 billion).
March 25, 2026
Spanish independent power producer (IPP) Zelestra has secured US$600 million in green financing for two solar PV projects totalling 440MW in Texas.
March 25, 2026
Indian solar PV manufacturer Waaree Energies is developing a INR39 billion (US$415 million) solar glass manufacturing facility in India.

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA
Solar Media Events
October 13, 2026
San Francisco Bay Area, USA
Solar Media Events
November 3, 2026
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
November 24, 2026
Warsaw, Poland