Anzana Electric Group Secures US$20 Million Debt Facility for African Hydropower Projects

Anzana Electric Group has raised a $20 million debt facility from British International Investment. The UK’s development finance institution and impact investor provided the senior secured portfolio funding.

The money will speed up construction of run-of-river hydropower projects in several African countries. Anzana, a Nairobi-based developer and operator, focuses on small-scale renewable energy solutions.

The facility supports Anzana’s end-to-end model. This includes power generation, distribution networks and customer connections. Officials say the approach ensures reliable and high-quality electricity supply.

Brian Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of Anzana Electric Group, described the funding as an important milestone. It will help the company scale operations across the continent and strengthen its partnership with British International Investment.

The financing addresses a common challenge in the sector. Small hydropower projects under 10MW often struggle to secure capital. The portfolio structure allows funds to move across multiple projects in different countries.

Anzana aims to deliver 10MW of new distributed baseload generation capacity by 2030. This is expected to produce over 50 GWh of clean electricity annually. The first project is planned for Zambia.

The company operates in East, Central and Southern Africa. It develops, finances and runs hydropower schemes along with electricity distribution networks.

British International Investment highlighted the project’s potential impact. The investment supports national goals for energy access and economic growth while promoting clean power.

Anzana is backed by Gridworks Development Partners and private American investors. The new facility builds on existing relationships and prepares the company for larger capital raises in future.

The deal comes as Africa seeks to expand renewable energy capacity. Run-of-river hydropower offers a reliable baseload alternative in regions with suitable river systems.