The SEED Center has advanced to the field test phase of the IEEE Empower a Billion Lives Competition (EBL), one of the world’s leading challenges for sustainable electrification. Out of hundreds of international teams, we are now one step closer to the finals, which will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 2-5 December 2025.

As part of this stage, we piloted our Circular Productive Use of Energy (CPUE) model, an innovative approach to stimulating demand in rural mini-grids by linking productive use applications in a circular loop.

In Kyampisi, Uganda, the following technologies were deployed:

• A solar irrigation system to increase agricultural yields,
• A solar milling unit to enable local crop processing, and
• A briquette machine that transforms milling residues into clean cooking fuel.

To make these technologies more affordable and inclusive, we are also testing Pay-As-You-Go models. Early results already demonstrate cost savings, higher revenues, and the creation of new employment opportunities. With the dry season approaching, we expect a stronger uptake of solar irrigation and income gains of up to USD 200 per season for participating farmers.

This is a rewarding and challenging journey with EBL, and we look forward to sharing further updates on advancing circularity in the productive use of energy.

Wish us luck as we move toward the final stage! 🌱