Genesis Energy Holding, a leading Pan-African clean energy infrastructure firm, has signed a landmark strategic collaboration agreement with Saudi Arabia–based Desert Technologies Industries Factory CJSC, a global innovator in smart solar solutions. The agreement was formalized at the 27th Africa Energy Forum (AEF 2025), reinforcing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) first signed in Dubai earlier this year by Genesis Chairman Akinwole II Omoboriowo and Desert Technologies CEO Khaled Sharbatly.
This partnership aims to co-develop and deploy scalable renewable energy systems across Africa, focusing on solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage technologies. Genesis’s solar and storage-focused subsidiary will serve as Desert Technologies’ preferred distribution and deployment partner on the continent.
At the heart of the collaboration is the rollout of Desert Technologies’ Sahara System—a modular, containerized solar solution designed for rapid installation in remote and off-grid areas. The goal: expand access to clean, reliable power for the over 600 million Africans currently lacking electricity.
“This collaboration marks a major milestone in our mission to empower African communities with clean energy,” said Akinwole II Omoboriowo, Chairman of Genesis. “By combining Desert Technologies’ cutting-edge solar products with our deep experience in project development and financing, we’re not just lighting up homes—we’re driving sustainable economic growth across the continent.”
Khaled Sharbatly, CEO of Desert Technologies, echoed the sentiment:
“This alliance brings Saudi innovation into high-impact global markets. Together with Genesis, we aim to deliver transformative energy solutions—one project, one community at a time.”
Haytham Abdo, General Manager for Development at Desert Technologies, added that the partnership supports scalable, long-term energy independence:
“By integrating our Sahara systems with Genesis’s execution expertise, we’re laying the foundation for resilient energy access where it’s needed most.”
Michelle Okoyomo, Genesis Vice President of Client Coverage, highlighted the partnership’s broader impact:
“This is about more than just technology—it’s about empowering local communities, driving innovation, and ensuring that clean energy is both accessible and inclusive.”
Genesis Energy brings a robust project pipeline exceeding 4.5 gigawatts (GW), with over 458 megawatts (MW) already operational or under construction. The partnership also opens avenues for joint ventures and project financing, including Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and credit lines through Saudi EXIM Bank and other international finance institutions.
To ensure effective execution, a joint working group will be formed, tasked with maintaining transparency, aligning with ESG principles, and monitoring project delivery.
The agreement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Africa’s broader drive for clean, resilient energy systems.
