African contract powers Leeds-based solar firm with £165k revenue boost

Renewable energy business Xerogrid has secured a six-figure contract to supply solar systems for powering mobile clinics in Nigeria.

The contract, worth £165k, will see Leeds-based Xerogrid provide solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for charity eHealth Africa and its semi-mobile, non-permanent health centres, which deliver vital health services and supplies to people in remote, cut-off communities.

Led by founder and managing director Ian Emberton, Xerogrid specialises in installing solar and wind power systems in difficult-to-reach locations off the mainstream power grid.

The company launched in 2015 and has since installed solar panels in the UK, Spain and Ghana, helping rural communities end their reliance on generators and become self sufficient.

Ian said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to put the power of solar energy to an excellent use that will create massive health benefits for people in many inaccessible Nigerian communities.”

“Xerogrid is becoming well known in West Africa, where our British branded solar panels, with their warranty and tech support, have established a reputation for quality.”

He added: “We are passionate about empowering people to create their own clean energy and are really excited to be working with eHealth Africa, which is such a progressive charity that is having an enormously positive impact on people’s lives in that part of the world. “

Ian is one of around 60 patrons of the Leeds City Region exporting network ExportExchange, which also counts Seabrook Crisps, Huddersfield Town FC and tea and coffee company Taylors of Harrogate among its members.

Ian continued: “Through our involvement with ExportExchange we have also begun to carry out our own freight forwarding, which means we can ensure consistent contact and excellent communication with the client throughout the whole export process, which is particularly important with overseas sales.”