Summary

SEE in Malawi has implemented an innovative lease-to-own business model for solar-powered irrigation systems targeting smallholder rice farmers in Northern Malwai. Smart Energy Enterprise (SEE) was contracted through an open call by Siemens Foundation under the SESA project and has received support from the SESA incubator program. Throughout the SESA project, SEE introduced the Kanyumba Solar Irrigation Package, designed for rice farming using surface water sources. The model enables farmers to pay in instalments aligned with harvest cycles, improving affordability and accessibility. Embedded digital management systems, after-sales services, and strategic partnerships with financial institutions and NGOs enhance sustainability. SEE managed to demonstrate viability of their approach within the SESA project period.