ImpactAlpha, July 24 – Off-grid energy sources have come a long way in accelerating access to energy. The solar sector, for instance, has brought power to more than 360 million off-grid people since 2010. U.K.-based SteamaCo wants to accelerate access to networked energy, like mini-grids, in the most remote locations though an energy metering technology that works without internet connectivity.
SteamaCo’s meters allow power operators to monitor household and business energy usage, and lets customers pre-pay via mobile phone or in person through agents. Its reach spans tens of thousands of homes and businesses in Africa and India, which are connected to nearby mini-grids via long-range, point-to-point wireless networks.
The company has raised a $5 million Series B funding round to support expansion from Praetura Ventures and Shell New Energies.
