Kanyabihara Farmers Cooperative and the Power of Reliable Energy.

When the FRES Solar mini-grid was extended to Kanyabihara, the change was not just about lighting homes it was about transforming how the entire community operates.

Before reliable electricity, the milk collection center depended on a diesel generator to run the milk cooler. Fuel costs were high, breakdowns were frequent, noise was constant, and at times milk risked spoilage due to unstable cooling. A large portion of the cooperative’s income was going into simply keeping the generator running.

After connection to the mini-grid, the milk cooler now runs on clean, stable electricity.

The impact has been immediate and measurable:
– 60% savings from eliminating daily diesel expenses.
– Consistent cooling, reducing milk spoilage and losses.
– Longer operating hours without worrying about fuel availability.
– More profits retained by the cooperative and dairy farmers.
– A quieter, cleaner working environment.

But the impact did not stop at the milk cooler.

Businesses around the trading center installed refrigerators and freezers to sell cold drinks and fresh products, attracting more customers and increasing daily sales. Small businesses like saloons, grocery shops began operating for longer hours.

With the installation of street lights in the mini-grid area up to a radius of 1 km, the trading center became active even after sunset. Movement is safer, shops close later, and the community feels more secure at night.

This is how access to reliable energy through FRES Solar mini-grids is strengthening dairy value chains, growing small businesses, improving safety, and empowering communities like Kanyabihara to thrive.

A special vote of thanks to all our partners, funders; EEP Africa , Vittoria Technology and AVSI Foundation. Your collaboration, trust, and support have brought this dream to life.