EEP Africa

EEP Africa, or the Energy and Environment Partnership Trust Fund, is a prominent multi-donor fund based in Helsinki, Finland, dedicated to fostering clean energy development in Southern and East Africa. Hosted by the Nordic Development Fund (NDF), its core mission is to accelerate the transition to a clean energy future by providing early-stage financing for innovative projects. The fund is instrumental in addressing climate change, promoting sustainable economic growth, and enhancing energy access for underserved communities across its target regions.

EEP Africa's investment strategy focuses on catalytic financing, primarily through grants and various debt instruments, including results-based financing, convertible grants, and concessional loans. They target a broad spectrum of early-stage initiatives, from feasibility studies and pilot projects to demonstration and scale-up ventures. The fund actively seeks out innovative business models and technologies that promise significant environmental and social impact, often requiring a substantial co-financing commitment from project developers to ensure shared risk and project viability.

The typical first cheque sizes from EEP Africa vary considerably, depending on the project's stage and scope. For early-stage feasibility or pilot projects, grants can commence around EUR 200,000, which translates to approximately USD 220,000. For more mature demonstration or scale-up projects, the funding can extend up to EUR 1 million, equivalent to about USD 1.1 million, frequently covering up to 50% of the total project cost. The fund's operations are concentrated in 15 specific countries across Southern and East Africa, reflecting a clear regional focus. Since its inception, EEP Africa has successfully supported over 280 projects, playing a crucial role in mobilizing significant follow-on investments in the clean energy sector.