MTN Uganda and Fenix International have launched an ultra-affordable Pay As You Go energy solution in a move to bring safe lighting, phone charging and more to those living off-grid across the country.
Dubbed ReadyPay Power, the Ush 40,000(about Ksh 1,500) system is available on a Pay As You Go basis using MTN Mobile Money and buyers can pay as if they are topping up their mobile phones. Users of the 7 days power kit have to top up payments from Ush 1,000 per day (about Ksh 40) to unlock the power until their kit is paid off. After that, owners get power for free.
Kenya’s Safaricom’s launched a similar platform last year dubbed M-KOPA Solar.
MTN Chief Marketing Officer Ernst Fonternel said,“The amount one pays determines how long one can access the power. For example, on the most affordable kit, a payment of 1,000 UGX will provide power for a day, whilst a larger payment of 30,000 UGX will provide power for a month.”
The ReadyPay Power System provides bright, safe, reliable lighting without the risk of using kerosene lamps, and secure phone charging without leaving your own home. It’s easy to set-up, no technician is needed, and comes with an 18 month warranty. Due to integration with MTN Mobile Money, customers can make small, affordable payments until they own the system.
ReadyPay has a solar panel, battery pack featuring 2 USB ports & 2 car lighter adapter ports plus a range of lights and phone charging accessories. Larger kits include radio or TV accessories and additional accessories like hair clippers or torches are sold separately.