MOPO’s growth charged by $7 million backing

A Sheffield-based sustainable energy solutions provider is set to accelerate its growth in Africa after securing a multi-million-dollar investment.

MOPO, which specialises in pay-per-use battery rentals, has received $7 million from British International Investment (BII) to expand its services across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 

Bosses say the funding, provided through BII’s Climate Innovation Facility, will enable MOPO to triple its service capacity within a year, enabling the firm to have a “transformative impact” by reaching more than a million people in the DRC.

With only 17 per cent of the DRC’s population currently having access to electricity, MOPO’s batteries, which customers can rent, return and replace on a pay-per-use basis at the company’s solar-powered hubs, provide an alternative to carbon-based petrol generators. 

Since launching in 2024, MOPO has expanded to six cities, helping households and small enterprises access affordable, clean energy without costly infrastructure investment. 

Chris Longbottom, MOPO chief executive, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with BII, which has acknowledged the significance of our innovative pay-per-use battery rental model. 

“At MOPO, our mission is to create a high-impact, sustainable solution that empowers households and small businesses by providing access to electricity without the burden of costly upfront equipment purchases. 

“This partnership aligns perfectly with BII’s mandate to finance initiatives that drive social and economic development.”

Chris Chijiutomi, BII managing director and head of Africa, added: “Imagine a battery that can power everything from phones to fridges, lights and larger appliances, enabling businesses even in the most remote locations to thrive when the supply of electricity is non-existent or unreliable. 

“By supporting innovative businesses like MOPO, we aim to create more early-stage solutions to address significant energy deficits across the continent. 

“We look forward to supporting MOPO as it delivers on its expansion plans and makes access to energy possible for more Africans.”

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