African SCENe, a 12‑month feasibility study spearheaded by the University of Nottingham in partnership with SmartKlub Ltd and local partners like Map Kibera, is transforming under‑resourced schools in Nairobi’s low‑income communities into solar‑powered energy hubs. These centers will provide clean, affordable electricity for classrooms, community services and evening study halls.
What’s Happening
Over half of Nairobi’s low‑income suburbs lack reliable electricity, handicapping learning and daily life.
African SCENe pinpointed schools in Kibera and Kangemi slums to pilot solar installations with battery storage and micro‑grid distribution capabilities. These schools will serve as solar-community hubs.
Worker installing solar panel on rooftop in Nairobi's biggest slum
Community & Educational Benefits
Solar lighting enables evening classes, boosting study time and learning outcomes.
Powered classrooms support digital learning, closing the tech divide for students and teachers alike.
Schools transform into energy centers for community needs such as cooking, water pumping, internet access and even charging stations.
“Schools are no longer just seats of learning—they’re beacons of renewable energy and hope.”
Technical & Social Design
The project is funded under the UK’s Innovate UK Energy Catalyst program, with expertise from Nottingham and in-country partners, aiming for scalable impact across East Africa.
Local community members are trained in solar maintenance and energy education, building local ownership and a replicable model.
Why It Matters
African SCENe illustrates how education and sustainable energy can merge to create holistic change: enhanced learning, community infrastructure, and environmental impact. It responds to Kenya’s push toward universal clean energy access (Kenya Vision 2030) while modeling how schools can catalyze local development.
