Eveready East Africa pivots to green energy and EV financing

The iconic “Shika Paka Pawa” brand is undergoing a major strategic overhaul, moving away from its traditional battery roots to embrace Kenya’s booming renewable energy sector.

Eveready East Africa has unveiled a transformation plan that targets solar power, electric vehicle (EV) financing, and carbon markets.

The move signals the company’s intent to transition from a legacy manufacturer into a modern player within the green energy ecosystem.

At the heart of this evolution is the Integrated Clean Energy Platform (ICEP).

This initiative aims to provide end-to-end support, including technology, installation, and financing,for a wide range of clients, from SMEs and schools to healthcare facilities and private households.

Furthermore, the company has secured high-level partnerships with Huawei Technologies and Jinko Solar.

These collaborations will allow Eveready to offer commercial solar inverters, grid-connected systems, and smart energy management tools designed to lower costs for consumers.

Reflecting on the change, CEO Sonia Karuma stated: “Eveready is reimagining its role in Kenya’s energy future. This transformation reflects our commitment to making clean, affordable, and reliable energy accessible, while building a resilient business positioned for long-term growth.”

Beyond solar energy, Eveready is making a significant entry into the e-mobility market.

By partnering with EV Jumla, the firm has launched asset-backed financing solutions specifically designed to lower the high upfront costs of electric transport.

Key features of the EV financing model include:

• Financing for both electric bikes and cars.

• Flexible repayment structures tailored for taxi drivers and delivery services.

• Integration with renewable-linked charging solutions.

Consequently, this move positions the Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed firm as a facilitator for wider EV adoption at a time when clean transport demand is accelerating across the region.

Building on a foundation laid in June 2023, Eveready is also expanding its partnership with the Regional Voluntary Carbon Market Company (RVCMC).

This collaboration stems from the historic voluntary carbon credit auction held in Nairobi—the largest of its kind globally.

By developing high-quality carbon projects, the company intends to generate verified emissions reductions, thereby unlocking new revenue streams through climate finance.

While the technology is new, Eveready is leaning heavily on its seven decades of brand trust.

Management noted that the company’s deep national reach and distribution networks provide a unique advantage in capturing the growing demand for reliable power.

“Eveready’s transformation positions the company to capture this opportunity while advancing environmental stewardship, financial inclusion and green job creation,” the company’s management added.

Ultimately, the shift represents a calculated bet that the future of the Kenyan economy lies in a low-carbon, inclusive model, moving far beyond the simple batteries that first made the brand a household name.