Sun King, a prominent off-grid solar enterprise operating throughout sub-Saharan Africa, has inaugurated its inaugural large-scale manufacturing facility in Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital. This milestone marks a pivotal advancement in the company’s strategy to increase local production of its solar-powered devices.
The newly established factory will focus on assembling solar-enabled televisions and smartphones optimized to function seamlessly with Sun King’s off-grid solar energy systems. With an initial annual output capacity of 700,000 units, the plant is designed to expand production in response to rising market demand.
“This manufacturing hub empowers us to tap into Africa’s skilled workforce and creativity, while delivering cost-effective, premium products,” stated T. Patrick Walsh, co-founder and CEO of Sun King.
The launch of the Nairobi plant highlights a broader trend of clean energy companies deepening their presence on the continent by situating production closer to end-users. As the appetite for affordable solar solutions and electric transportation surges, innovators like Sun King and Spiro-recently backed by a $100 million funding round to grow their electric motorcycle network-are betting on Africa’s future growth being driven by locally produced green technologies.
In a significant financial boost, Sun King secured a KES 20 billion (approximately $156 million) loan in July from a consortium of banks and development finance institutions. This funding, structured around repayments from future customers, will enable the company to extend its reach to roughly 1.4 million low-income families and small enterprises through its pay-as-you-go solar offerings.
Serving millions across Africa and Asia, Sun King anticipates that the Nairobi plant will streamline supply chains, cut down transportation expenses, and enhance product availability. Plans are also underway to establish a second manufacturing site in Nigeria, reinforcing regional production and distribution networks.
Since its founding in 2007, Sun King has specialized in designing and distributing solar-powered kits and appliances-including lighting, fans, and televisions-targeted at off-grid households and small businesses. The company currently delivers over 330,000 solar kits monthly across Africa, a remarkable increase from just 10,000 units in 2017, with one in five Kenyan homes now owning a Sun King product.
Rising Momentum
By shifting manufacturing operations to Africa, Sun King aims to reduce its carbon footprint while fostering economic growth within local communities.
“Our Kenyan facility exemplifies Sun King’s enduring collaboration with governments and local stakeholders to boost Africa’s industrial capabilities,” explained Wale Aboyade, senior vice president for public policy and government relations at Sun King.
This investment aligns with the continent’s accelerating demand for affordable, sustainable energy solutions and reflects increasing investor enthusiasm for cleantech and climate-conscious sectors.