Access Bank Partners with ASOLAR to Empower Nigerian SMEs and Rural Communities with Green Energy Solutions
Access Bank Plc in collaboration with Asolar has launched a green energy solution to address the power supply challenges faced by small and medium businesses and rural areas
communities across the country.
The products, which included solar-powered televisions, air conditioners and PoS machines, among many others, were launched Tuesday at the Access Bank
Branch in Garki, Abuja.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony tagged: ‘Light up your community’, the Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank, Victor Etuokwu, said the inconsistent power
supply has become a major obstacle to businesses and livelihoods in the country.
Represented by the bank’s Regional Services Director, Neka Adogu, Mr. Etuokwu said the initiative aims to promote financial inclusion in rural areas.
He said
“This inconsistent power supply poses a substantial challenge to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as initiatives aimed at promoting financial inclusion in rural areas, which is considered a parameter for economic growth in Nigeria.
Currently in Nigeria, SME owners and people living in rural communities with little or no power supply spend huge sums on purchasing generator sets, purchasing fuel and maintaining generators to successfully operate their businesses.
Furthermore, in the broader context of financial inclusion, the lack of accessibility to power becomes a critical barrier.
Reliable electricity is a fundamental prerequisite for implementing modern financial services such as digital banking and payment systems, especially in underserved rural areas.
This disparity in access to power widens the financial gap, impeding initiatives aimed at providing banking and financial services to those most in need.
Through this partnership, we embark on a transformative journey to introduce cost-effective and reliable solar-powered solutions tailored specifically for small and medium-sized businesses.
By harnessing the potential of solar energy, we aim to free these companies from the shackles of unreliable energy sources and offer promising alternatives to traditional generators that rely on expensive and polluting fossil fuels.
By providing access to affordable solar-powered solutions, we strive to significantly reduce operating costs, increase productivity and catalyze the growth of these companies.
Access Bank PLC’s collaboration with ASOLAR is not just transforming energy solutions; is utilizing our Access CLOSA Agent Network platform as a digital payment provider,” he said.
In his remarks, Asolar CEO Hakeem Shagaya said the company is committed to ensuring that all citizens have access to reliable and
sustainable energy across the country.
While appreciating the collaboration of the bank’s management, Mr. Shagaya noted that the initiative was in line with sustainable development objectives on cleanliness
and renewable energy.
“As we embark on this journey towards access to green energy, let us not ignore the profound impact on our environment. This initiative does not just aim to light up homes; it’s about lighting the way to a greener, cleaner tomorrow.
Home Solar Systems represent a commitment to environmental management, reducing carbon footprints and actively contributing to the global fight against climate change.
The positive environmental impact goes beyond reducing emissions, encompassing the preservation of ecosystems, the promotion of biodiversity and the creation of a more sustainable and resilient planet for future generations.”
In his comment, Chizoba Iheme, Group Head of Financial Inclusion at Access Bank Plc, revealed that the bank has over 300,000 access agents across the country to
facilitate distribution across Nigeria.
The initiative is generally geared towards offering a lasting solution to the (light) energy problem faced by SMEs across Nigeria; especially those situated in rural areas
areas. It is predominantly expected to improve business sustainability and growth among SMEs across Nigeria.
Source: www.lindaikejisblog.com