Schneider Electric pushes for energy democracy at EAIF 2026

According to the energy technology leader, this would address the energy trilemma of access, affordability, and reliability. 

At the opening of the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) Energy Access investment Forum (EAIF) 2026 Conference, Shneider Electric advocated for a shift from centralized systems to community-led, distributed energy solutions can help accelerate the energy transition while sustaining local economic value.

At the summit, the energy technology leader said it was committed to accelerating an inclusive energy transition by expanding access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable green electricity across Sub-Saharan Africa. 

The International Energy Agency (IEA), Tracking SDG 7: The Energy Progress Report 2025, reports that more than 666 million people worldwide still lack access to electricity, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing the largest share of the gap. Of the 20 countries with the widest electricity access deficits in 2023, 18 are in the region. 

The IEA notes that without meaningful acceleration, the goal of universal energy access by 2030 will be difficult to achieve. In this context, distributed renewable energy solutions—including mini-grids and off-grid solar—are seen as critical to reaching remote areas and vulnerable populations. 

At the conference, Schneider Electric presented its portfolio of solutions and innovations, including the Climate Smart Village business model, which combines smart technologies with inclusive, community-centred approaches to accelerate the deployment of decentralized clean energy and deliver tangible social and economic impact at the local level.

“Access to energy must go hand in hand with strengthening human capacity and fostering local entrepreneurship,” said Ayush Gupta, Director of Global Strategy & Business for Anglophone Africa, Access to Energy at Schneider Electric.

Another key solution showcased is Altivar Solar ATV320, a solar-powered water pumping solution designed to expand access to clean water and enable sustainable irrigation in regions with off-grid or limited energy access. 

By automatically adapting pump performance to available solar energy, the company said Altivar Solar contributes to higher agricultural productivity, enhanced food security, and improved public health outcomes.