Expanding Access to Essential Cooling Across Africa

Pan-African startup Koolboks is addressing energy poverty by providing solar-powered refrigeration solutions to off-grid communities. Since 2021, they’ve deployed over 10,000 units across Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda.

The company was founded in 2018 by Ayoola Dominic and Deborah Gael, who initially developed a portable solar cooler for the European market. Recognizing a more pressing need based on Dominic’s experience growing up in Nigeria, they pivoted to focus on providing reliable refrigeration where it’s most needed.

“Our units operate entirely on solar energy with integrated lithium-ion batteries, offering 24/7 cooling even without direct sunlight,” explains Dominic. “This precise temperature control is essential for preserving vaccines, fish, poultry, and other perishables.”

Addressing Key Challenges

The lack of reliable refrigeration impacts millions across Africa, leading to food spoilage, medical waste, and lost income for small businesses. Koolboks primarily serves these underserved markets with units that can also be used to charge phones or power lights.

To ensure affordability, Koolboks offers a “Pay As You Go” (PAYG) financing model where customers make small upfront payments and repay via mobile money over 12-24 months. Each unit is IoT-enabled for remote management and monitoring.

Expanding Reach and Revenue Streams

Koolboks’ expansion plans include Mozambique and Ghana within the next year, with Nigeria remaining its largest market. Beyond hardware sales, the company generates revenue through PAYG financing interest, a BNPL platform for other appliance brands (Samsung, Panasonic), and a “Scrap4New” program that offers discounts for trading in old refrigerators.

The startup recently secured US$11 million in Series A funding, bringing its total to approximately US$15.4 million, enabling further expansion and innovation in the off-grid energy space.