Eight months ago, in June 2024, we gathered in Arua, Uganda to officially launch the Horizon Europe SUNNY project. This Kick-Off Meeting was more than just a formal start—it was a moment of shared commitment among our 17 European and African partners to bring sustainable energy solutions to refugee settlements and host communities in Africa.
A Look Back at the Kick-Off in Uganda
The SUNNY project’s journey began with an inspiring and productive gathering of all partners in Arua, near the Bidibidi Refugee Settlement—one of our two key demonstration sites. The meeting provided a crucial opportunity to align on goals, discuss implementation strategies, and most importantly, visit the Bidibidi settlement to gain firsthand insight into the energy challenges faced by refugees and their host communities.
Walking through the settlement, we saw the daily struggles that families face due to limited access to electricity. Farmers lack proper irrigation systems, homes rely on costly and polluting fuels, and food storage remains a challenge without refrigeration. These realities reinforced why SUNNY’s mission—to implement clean, affordable, and scalable renewable energy solutions—is more urgent than ever.
Where Are We Now? Progress Since the Kick-Off
Since that milestone event, the SUNNY project has been making steady progress toward its implementation goals with start of WP1 – Contextual analysis, community engagement and requirements definition and WP2 – Local value chain, training and capacity building collaborative development. Here’s what we’ve achieved so far:
📍 Understanding Local Energy Needs (WP1 – Context & Requirements)
✅ Energy & Policy Analysis: We assessed the energy situation, social factors, and regulations in Mahama (Rwanda) and Bidibidi (Uganda).
✅ Community Engagement: Local stakeholders—including refugees, businesses, and farmers—were involved through surveys, interviews, and workshops to ensure SUNNY’s solutions meet real needs.
✅ Technical Requirements Defined: Energy demand predictions were made, and specific technology needs for solar home systems, biogas digesters, hydrogen cookstoves, and irrigation solutions were identified.
📍 Strengthening Local Value Chains & Training (WP2 – Capacity Building)
✅ Workforce & Skills Assessment: We analyzed training needs for operating and maintaining SUNNY’s energy systems.
✅ Local Involvement: Key community members were recruited to participate in co-creation activities that will help refine SUNNY’s solutions.
A Call to Action
The Kick-Off Meeting in Uganda was just the beginning of this exciting journey. Eight months later, we are more determined than ever to drive the green energy transition and improve energy access for displaced communities.
🌍 Stay connected with us for more updates as we move forward in building a sustainable, energy-secure future for all.