Leo Schiefermueller, the majority owner of JUMEME, says the company is built on a “productive use business model for mini-grid development.” The model has several advantages for both the communities where JUMEME builds its mini-grids, but also in alleviating some of the financial challenges associated with developing mini-grids in rural areas with low-income populations.

With this in mind, since its inception, JUMEME’s strategy has been to identify opportunities for its mini-grids to become embedded in local economies. With its first-ever project on Ukara Island in Lake Victoria, JUMEME experimented with what it calls its KeyMaker Model. In short, JUMEME sought to create a mini-grid business with an additional arm that supports the local fishing industry.

Read more: Sustainably Energy for All